DE Bradlee Anae:
Scouting Reports:
Utah Profile: https://utahutes.com/sports/football/roster/bradlee-anae/8981
NFL.com: https://www.nfl.com/prospects/bradlee-anae?id=3219414e-4116-6115-7bc0-5ac560a62693
Walterfootball: http://walterfootball.com/scoutingreport2020banae.php
2020 NFL draft: Bradlee Anae scouting report: https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2020/03/11/2020-nfl-draft-bradlee-anae-scouting-report/
Draft Network: https://thedraftnetwork.com/player/bradlee-anae/LnyDKfLTtU
Articles:
Fromm headlines 10 underrated prospects (4. TE Devin Asiasi, UCLA: If I'm drafting Devin Asiasi, I'm not doing it intending to have him lining up and blocking guys like Khalil Mack. If Asiasi had shown the ability to do that at the college level, he's likely a second-round pick at a minimum. Of course, he could develop those skills -- he's 6-foot-3, 260 pounds -- but if I'm drafting him, it's for his ability as a receiver. Asiasi is a player that's going to need to land with a team that utilizes tight ends of his type. He's a fluid athlete that runs strong routes and can get open against linebackers and defensive backs as well. He also has good hands -- only one drop on 69 targets last season -- and can be an effective weapon for an NFL offense. How good he will be ultimately depends on whether or not he develops as a blocker, but his receiving skills should keep him on a roster somewhere.) (4-22-20): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-draft-2020-10-underrated-sleepers-who-wont-be-picked-early-but-will-turn-into-quality-nfl-players/
NFL Draft EDGE target Bradlee Anae gets another meeting with the Lions (4-17-20): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/17/nfl-draft-edge-target-bradlee-anae-gets-another-meeting-with-the-lions/
Lions 2020 NFL draft: A pass rusher for every round (Fourth round: Bradlee Anae, Utah - Another player who shined for the Lions coaches during Senior Bowl week, Anae wins with power-to-speed rushes. He’s an attack dog, always playing offense as a defender. As you might expect, that approach doesn’t always work. It does command blocking attention and makes the physical 257-pounder difficult to play against. So does Anae’s variety of pass rush moves and quickness at which he can string them together. He’s especially good at chucking tight ends trying to get out into routes, something the Lions coaching staff will appreciate. Anae would be a round or two higher based on game tape, but he is a limited athlete. His combine performance was quietly quite poor, finishing below average in most metric testing. In short, Anae is a solid football player but one with a limited ceiling due to his relative lack of athleticism.) (4-12-20): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/04/12/lions-2020-nfl-draft-a-pass-rusher-for-every-round/
2020 NFL Draft: Perfect landing spots for the top 10 edge defenders (10. BRADLEE ANAE — DALLAS COWBOYS (PFF Big Board Rank: 91): Following a disappointing performance at the combine, it’s hard to talk about Anae without leading off with his athletic limitations. There’s just not much of a chance that he becomes an elite edge defender with the kind of measurables that he put up in Indianapolis, but on the other hand, Anae has been one of the most prolific pass-rushers in college football over the past several seasons. His 158 pressures over the last three seasons are more than any player in this year’s draft class, and his technique is some of the best that you’ll see. That gives him some value to teams as we get deeper into Day 2. The Cowboys have added two veterans on their interior defensive line in Gerald McCoy and Dontari Poe to help bolster the middle of their defense, but they could still look to add another edge defender to rotate opposite Demarcus Lawrence. Dallas did sign Aldon Smith, but it remains to be seen how he will look in his first NFL game action since 2015. Anae is a guy who could come in and contribute right now in a rotational role given how well he uses his hands, and the Cowboys could still look to other areas of need with their early picks, i.e., cornerback, especially since they let Byron Jones walk.) (4-8-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-perfect-landing-spots-for-the-top-10-edge-defenders
Detroit Lions Could Still Add Two EDGE Rushers to Improve Defense (Not only was Bradlee Anae highly productive in college, but his skills translated well to the Senior Bowl, too. He was graded as the second-best player in the game by PFF. He accumulated five quarterback pressures and three sacks on just 16 pass-rush snaps.) (3-31-20): https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/detroit-lions-defensive-line-must-remain-high-priority-for-bob-quinn
2020 Draft: 5 groups of edge rushers (Anae has the most advanced repertoire of pass-rushing maneuvers of any edge rusher in this class. You name the move, he has it and deployed it over the past four years at Utah. At 6-3 and 257 pounds, he sets a sturdy edge and looks like an NFL defensive end today.) (3-30-20): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-draft-examining-chase-young-klavon-chaisson-and-rest-of-the-edge-rusher-class-by-type/
3 EDGE Rushers Lions Could Target in Later Rounds of NFL Draft (EDGE Bradlee Anae, Utah: Not only was Anae super productive in college, but his skills translated well to the Senior Bowl, too. He was graded as the second-best player in the game by PFF. He accumulated five quarterback pressures and three sacks on just 16 pass-rush snaps. Based off recent draft history, pure speed and quickness aren't necessarily at the top of the list in terms of what the Lions look for in a front-seven player. Per Trevor Sikkema of The Draft Network on Anae: "Strong to hold the line as a defensive end. Can play the run very well with strong hands, good length and an understanding of his job. Has a strong bull rush with a good punch on contact. Can push offensive linemen back on a regular basis to collapse the pocket. Spin move is definitely his go-to pass rush move. He can hit it nicely when he sets his guy when he hits that first step.") (3-23-20): https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/3-edge-rushers-lions-could-target-in-later-rounds-of-nfl-draft
2020 NFL draft: Possible first-round QB Jacob Eason lands at No. 87 in our rankings (86. Utah EDGE Bradlee Anae
(6-foot-3, 257 pounds): Yahoo draft grade: 5.78. The lowdown: Anae is a high-strung, highly active pass rusher who can wear down offensive tackles with his relentless effort and nasty disposition. After an eye-opening sophomore season in 2017 (10 TFLs, seven sacks, three forced fumbles), Anae became a fixture for the Utes the past three seasons, finishing his career with a school-record 30 sacks. With a strong first step and a good array of pass-rush moves, Anae is a load to deal with — even though he’s neither stout nor long. He grinds away at blockers and gives them all they can handle; it’s perhaps not shocking then that several players at the Senior Bowl and combine mentioned Anae as their toughest matchup they faced in college. He also won the 2019 Morris Trophy as the Pac-12’s top defensive lineman (as voted on by the conference’s offensive linemen). There will be limitations in the NFL for Anae, who could struggle with longer-armed and more technically proficient tackles. He’s also an inconsistent run defender, isn’t as effective moving laterally and can be crumpled by efficient double teams. Still, the NFL seeks natural pass rushers, and Anae has a knack for hunting quarterbacks. He can set up blockers with speed-to-power rushes followed by a series of great chop moves to win battles. He turned in an excellent Senior Bowl, putting on a pass-rush move clinic. Anae’s work ethic and pass-rushing proficiency will give him a chance to help immediately in the NFL, even if he’s not well-rounded enough to be a Day 1 starter and 60-snaps-per-game defender. We expect him to add energy to whatever DL room he lands in, profiling similarly to 2019 New England Patriots third-round pick Chase Winovich. By the numbers: In addition to holding the Utes’ sack record, he also holds school marks for most lost yardage on sacks (210 yards) and tackles for loss (243). Interesting fact: Anae has quite the athletic family. His father, Brad, played football at BYU and was a USFL teammate of Hall of Famer Jim Kelly with the Houston Gamblers. His uncle, Robert, also played at BYU and in the USFL, and is currently the offensive coordinator at Virginia. Two of Anae’s sisters played college volleyball — Adora at Utah and Pati at Portland State. And his youngest sister, Bradina, is a powerlifter who holds age-group world records in the squat (474 pounds, set in 2016), bench press (335 pounds, 2017) and deadlift (524 pounds, 2016). “[We’re] just a bunch of wild animals, me and my sisters,” Anae said at the combine, laughing. “That’s what my mom [Ina] would say all the time. “Props to my mom, who had to deal with all of us. We were a pretty wild bunch. But we’re competitive. My mom’s the hardest worker we know, so we all look up to her. I think that’s where my three sisters [and I] got that work ethic from.” Draft range: Third round) (3-11-20): https://sports.yahoo.com/2020-nfl-draft-possible-firstround-qb-jacob-eason-lands-at-no-87-in-our-rankings-015738570.html
TWENTYMAN: 7 pass rushers not named Chase Young that could interest Lions (6. Bradlee Anae, Utah – Relentless: Height/weight: 6-3, 257. 2019 stats: 41 tackles, 14.0 tackles for loss, 13.0 sacks, one forced fumble. Combine results: 40: 4.93, Bench: 25, Vertical: 31.0, Broad: 115.0, 3 Cone: 7.44. Scouting report: Anae is quick out of the gate and accelerates around the edge with relaxed hips and physical hands to run the hoop. Against the run, he has strong ball awareness but can be too easily overwhelmed by size on the edges ... – Dane Brugler, The Athletic. Draft projection: Day 2. What Anae says about his game: "A lot of scouts have me going day two, possible to jump up to day one guy. Those predictions will be more solidified after the combine," Anae told KHON2 right before the Combine. "Day two, possible to jump into day one as a first rounder. As of now, that's my goal to be able to solidify myself as a day one guy and to be able to go to Vegas for draft day and take my family to Vegas. That's just the goal for now so the first step of doing that is this combine.") (3-4-20): https://www.detroitlions.com/news/twentyman-7-pass-rushers-not-named-chase-young-that-could-interest-the-lions
Draft prospects who need strong pro day (Bradlee Anae, EDGE, Utah: Anae was soft-spoken in his press conference. One team official claimed that he almost came across as 'wimpy,' which was a bit surprising to me considering he had just told a story about swimming with sharks. It is the bull sharks that you have to be wary of, he says. Anae ran a 4.93 second 40-yard dash, which was both unexpected and disappointing. His three-cone drill, 7.44 seconds, was not much better. Seven seconds in the latter is a benchmark that teams expect edge rushers to hit.) (3-3-20): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-draft-six-draft-prospects-who-need-to-bounce-back-from-a-weak-combine-with-a-strong-pro-day/
Jordan Love's comp; Okudah's inspiration; Mayfield on CeeDee and more (When he's not sacking quarterbacks, Utah DE Bradlee Anae enjoys cliff diving, surfing and petting sharks when home in Hawaii. During the Senior Bowl, coach Matt Patricia commended Anae for having a "great outside chop.")(3-2-20): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001104990/article/jordan-loves-comp-okudahs-inspiration-mayfield-on-ceedee
Stock report from the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine (Down - Bradlee Anae, Utah: The film shows a technically proficient and productive edge rusher, but Anae's speed and athleticism proved to be below-average at the combine.) (3-2-20): https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/03/02/stock-report-2020-nfl-scouting-combine/4927380002/
Winners and losers from the 2020 scouting combine (Loser: Bradlee Anae: The University of Utah EDGE defender put incredible production on film this past season, even dealing with a multitude of blocking schemes that were slid his way, as he told the media on Thursday. Anae posted 41 total tackles last season for the Utes, including 14 for a loss, to go with his 13 sacks. Then at the Senior Bowl, Anae had a solid week in front of NFL teams, capping that week off with a great performance in the game itself. Anea notched three sacks and five total pressures, and one of his pressures led to an interception. But the production did not match what Anae turned in during testing in Indianapolis. He ran just a 4.93 in the 40-yard dash, with a 10-yard split of 1.69. His agility and explosive tests were average at best, especially his three-cone time of 7.44 which put him in the middle of the pack. Anae put incredible production on film this season, and in Mobile. For most scouts, film is more important than what you do during testing, but Anae missed out on an opportunity to continue the momentum he generated down in Mobile.) (3-1-20): https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/2020/03/01/winners-and-losers-from-the-2020-scouting-combine/
DL drills: Weaver shines, Brown struggles (Losers - Bradlee Anae, Utah. No one expected Anae to flourish here at the combine, but he tested like a much larger defensive lineman, and his 7.44 three-cone drill was one of the slowest in the edge-rusher group. Anae wins with tremendous hand usage and power.) (3-1-20): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-combine-2020-results-curtis-weaver-justin-madubuike-winners-as-edge-rushers-defensive-linemen-work-out/
DJ's takeaways from Day 3 of NFL combine drills (Bradlee Anae, Utah (No. 40 to Cardinals): "The production is off the charts. Phenomenon production at Utah. The question is how athletic is he? How explosive is he. He's a technician with his hands. We talked about it a little earlier the three sacks he had, Tim mentioned it, at the Senior Bowl. He's a technician. The question is how much juice, how much burst does he have? He's my 48th player right now. His 10 wasn't bad. The 4.92 isn't great. But it's really about that first 10 yards simulating that get off the line of scrimmage as an edge rusher. That's the number you're keeping an eye out on. The mark there is 1.65. That's what you're shooting for.") (2-29-20): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001103989/article/daniel-jeremiahs-2020-nfl-scouting-combine-takeaways
Edge defenders to target in free agency and the 2020 NFL Draft (The Mid Tier - BRADLEE ANAE: Anae’s 158 pressures over his last three college seasons are the most of any player in this year’s edge draft class. He has been ultra-productive in his tenure with the Utes, consistently getting after the quarterback with some of the best pass-rushing technique that you’ll see at the college level. The concern with Anae is that he is going to have limitations athletically, but his hand usage and pass-rushing repertoire give him a good chance to be a contributor early on in his NFL career. With Anae likely coming off the board later than some of the top options, teams will be able to target him on Day 2 to add some depth at edge.) (2-27-20): https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-edge-defenders-free-agency-2020-nfl-draft
2020 NFL Scouting Combine: Notable quotes and analysis from Day 1 (“Washington TE Hunter Bryant said Utah's Bradlee Anae was the toughest player he faced at the collegiate level, praised him for his size/athleticism.” – Austin Gayle. Bradlee Anae was hands down the best defensive lineman in the Pac-12 conference; he is a top-100 prospect in PFF's eyes. In that matchup, Bryant did let up a pressure in pass protection, but he also posted the highest single-game run-blocking grade of the 2019 season.) (2-25-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-scouting-combine-notable-quotes-and-analysis-from-day-1
NFL Hot Press: Jordan Love Voted Most Overrated Prospect (Anae received 1 vote.) (2-25-20): http://walterfootball.com/nflhotpress/article/Jordan-Love-Voted-Most-Overrated-Prospect
Lions 2020 Combine Preview: EDGE Rusher (Bradlee Anae, Utah: The Lions coaching staff got a good look at Anae during the Senior Bowl. With three sacks in the game and plenty of wins in the one-on-one drills, Anae knows how to get to the quarterback. His long-arm move and non-stop motor will have Anae high on the Lions board for a JACK backer. One reason he isn't being talked about more is due to his athletic limitations and relatively average length for a down defensive end. He has shown the ability to rush the passer standing up, though -- which is likely where the Lions would use him.) (2-24-20): https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/detroit-lions-2020-nfl-combine-preview-edge-rusher
Who and what to watch at the 2020 NFL Combine: EDGE rushers (Bradlee Anae, Utah (Suggested by: Matt Urben): Anae played DDE under the Lions coaching tutelage at the Senior Bowl and absolutely dominated. Anae is more in the mold of Okwara, rather than Flowers, as he is capable of rushing from a standing position as well as with his hand in the dirt. He wins primarily with his first-step quickness, and while he will get knocked for his length (31.88″) he understands how to bend his body to maximize leverage. Once he establishes his front hand, he follows it with a variety of pass-rushing moves that keep offensive linemen guessing.) (2-23-20): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/02/23/detroit-lions-2020-nfl-combine-preview-edge-rushers/
Combine: Answering the biggest questions (Who needs a huge combine the most to save/boost their draft stock? Bradlee Anae, EDGE, Utah: Anae is the all-time leader in Utah's program history with 29.5 quarterback takedowns, and the vast majority of those splash plays came after spectacular pass-rushing moves. However, the nearly 6-4 and 257-pound edge rusher is noticeably lacking explosion off the football. If he can piece together a respectable workout -- mostly in the 40 and broad and vertical -- along with a solid three-cone time, Anae will garner second-round buzz.) (2-21-19): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-combine-burning-questions-answered-which-prospects-will-erupt-who-needs-a-big-workout-and-more/
2020 NFL Draft edge rusher rankings: Chase Young in a class by himself, but there could be many early picks (Bradlee Anae, Utah: Anae stole the show at the Reese's Senior Bowl with a couple of sacks in the game. He is an active player that explodes off the line of scrimmage. The Hawaii native is best suited as a 4-3 defensive end and could be a long-term starter there if he refines his pass rush. Anae needs to do a better job of containing the edge and maintaining gap discipline. He gets washed out far too often for the liking of NFL coaches.) (2-17-20): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-draft-edge-rusher-rankings-chase-young-in-a-class-by-himself-but-there-could-be-many-early-picks/
NFL draft watch: 10 targets for Lions in Round 2
Lions (DE Bradlee Anae, Utah: Anae crushed the Senior Bowl, and did it while playing for Lions coach Matt Patricia on the North team. He had three sacks and was praised by Patricia for having “a great gift” to rush the passer. Anae graduated as Utah’s all-time sack leader and would immediately help the Lions generate more pressure on quarterbacks, something they struggled with last season.) (2-16-20): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/02/16/10-players-detroit-lions-could-target-round-2-nfl-draft/4759338002/
2020 NFL Combine: Defensive End, Edge Rusher Prospects, Invites, What To Watch For (10. Bradlee Anae, Utah, 6-3, 257 (3) - NFL Combine What Matters: Are the raw tools there to go along with the fight? Everyone will love his style of play, but is he a try-hard type, or can he move like the top pass rushers in the draft? One great workout moves him into the second round.) (2-11-20): https://collegefootballnews.com/2020/02/2020-nfl-combine-defensive-end-edge-rusher-prospects-invites-what-to-watch-for
2020 NFL Draft Position Rankings: Edge Defenders (6. BRADLEE ANAE, UTAH (Draft Board Rank: 46th): Anae has quite easily some of the best hands in this draft class. He put up 11 pressures on 49 pass-rushing snaps against Washington's Trey Adams and four against USC's Austin Jackson — two of the top tackle prospects in the class. He's also been an ironman over his career, with 700-plus snaps in each of the past three years. The Utah edge defender will almost certainly get the “tapped out” label. His lack of length or any sort of plus athleticism will scare teams away. With what's already a full toolbox of pass-rushing moves, coaches worry about where a guy like that can improve. It's still a good starting place in our eyes, though, and he could quite easily make an impact early on in his career.) (2-3-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-position-rankings-edge-defenders
Six players to watch for the Detroit Lions after a week at Senior Bowl (Edge rusher Bradlee Anae: If Uche isn’t there, the Utah edge rusher could be incredibly attractive to Detroit. His instincts off the ball are top-notch and he had enough speed to chase down Oklahoma quarterback Jalen Hurts. He had two sacks in the Senior Bowl but, like Uche, appeared to be constantly around the ball. He’s the type of player who could play standing up or in a stance, giving Patricia some flexibility. This after a 41-tackle, 13-sack season in 2019.) (1-31-20): https://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/36273/six-players-to-watch-for-the-detroit-lions-after-a-week-at-senior-bowl
Utah's Bradlee Anae is a Great Fit for Lions (1-29-20): https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/utah-bradlee-anae-would-be-a-great-fit-for-detroit-lions-nfl-draft
10 QUESTIONS WITH TWENTYMAN: Which draft prospects could make an immediate impact for Lions? (20man: For those of you out there who might not be familiar, that's Utah edge rusher Bradlee Anae and Michigan edge rusher Josh Uche. Both players worked with the Lions coaching staff at the Senior Bowl last week, and both players helped their stock in Mobile. Uche checked in at 6-1, 241 pounds and showed good speed and bend off the edge as a stand-up pass rusher. He also showed some athleticism in space, which was important for him. Anae is a little bigger at 6-3, 251. He's a technician with a lot of pass-rushing moves and good anticipatory skills. They were both active and disruptive in the game on Saturday, too, which was good to see. Anae, Utah's all-time sack leader, is likely a second-round pick. Uche could also be a Day 2 pick. The Lions got a good look at both players last week. I could certainly see at least one being a Lion next season.) (1-28-20): https://www.detroitlions.com/news/10-questions-with-twentyman-which-draft-prospects-could-make-an-immediate-impact
2020 Senior Bowl Recap (Anae could have been the MVP of the Senior Bowl, houndeing the South quarterbacks like an animal. In the second quarter, Anae got off a block from Texas Tech's Terrance Steele to sack of Hurts. Late in the third quarter, Anae notched a coverage sack after he kept fighting and eventually broke free from the right tackle to take down Colorado quarterback Steven Montez. There is no doubt Anae has some natural pass-rush skills, but he faces some physical limitations for the NFL. Therefore, he is more of a prospect for the second day of the 2020 NFL Draft.) (1-27-20): http://walterfootball.com/draft2020seniorbowlrecap.php
2020 Senior Bowl: Justin Herbert solidifies top-15-pick standing (Bradlee Anae, edge rusher, Utah. Anae would not be blocked. After getting in on back-to-back sacks of QB Jalen Hurts in the second quarter, Anae followed that later in the quarter by beating Oregon offensive tackle Calvin Throckmorton with an inside move and hammering Hurts just as he released a downfield pass. The hit affected the throw, causing it to flutter for an easy interception by Ohio State LB Malik Harrison. "He did a great job," said Detroit Lions coach Matt Patricia, who coached Anae's victorious North squad. "He's really improved. We've gone over a lot of things with him from a pass rush standpoint, from a technique standpoint, and he tried to take all that (to the game). He's got a great gift, a great ability to rush the edge." Anae picked up another sack in the second half, beating Texas Tech OT Terence Steele to take down Colorado QB Steven Montez. "He was the first one off the ball every snap for that Utah front," Jeremiah said during the broadcast. "... You see guys who can get off, but can't finish. He finishes, and he did it all week.") (1-25-20): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001099039/article/2020-senior-bowl-justin-herbert-solidifies-top15pick-standing
Winners from Senior Bowl (Utah edge rusher Bradlee Anae: Anae was disruptive Saturday. He found his way to the quarterback on two separate occasions at the expense of Texas Tech's Terence Steele and Mississippi State's Tyre Phillips. The Hawaii native's career culminated with 13 sacks this season. He needs to do a better job of containing the edge. His comfort in coverage will need to improve or else he will be exclusively pegged as a 4-3 defensive end. ) (1-25-20): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/senior-bowl-2020-final-score-justin-herbert-bradlee-anae-lead-list-of-saturdays-winners/live/
2020 Reese’s Senior Bowl Practice Report: North Team (Thursday - Anae’s explosion off the line of scrimmage is awesome. He constantly wins off the ball and he feasted on the tackles today. He’s a legitimate top top talent, and he showed why on Thursday. Analysis - Off the ball, Anae may have had the fastest get off in Mobile. He was constantly in the back field before tackles could touch him. He also displayed a level of hand fighting I didn’t priorly realize he had. Strong player had a strong week. Expect Bradley Anae to be drafted somewhere between 25 and 45.) (1-24-20): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2020-reeses-senior-bowl-practice-report-north-team/
Biggest takeaways from a week of Senior Bowl practices (45. Bradlee Anae, Edge, Utah: Anae looked quite easily the most technically sound edge rusher at the Senior Bowl. His hand usage was top notch, but his lack of top-tier athleticism really showed against some of the more athletic tackles. It’s also worrisome that he had only 31 ⅞” arms — a very short number for an NFL edge rusher.) (1-24-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-senior-bowl-takeaways-2020
2020 Senior Bowl Risers: Terrell Lewis highlights Thursday’s list (Bradlee Anae/EDGE/Utah: Anae showed off his elite explosion today. He was unstoppable off the ball and would be in the backfield before the offensive tackles got out of their stance. He also displayed elite hand usage keeping himself clean.) (1-23-20): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2020-senior-bowl-risers-terrell-lewis-highlights-thursdays-list/
2020 Reese’s Senior Bowl Practice Report: North Team (Anae was much better today. He showed off his physical abilities, and was more impactful in pass rush situations. His ability is evident and I hope he has a strong day tomorrow.) (1-22-20): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2020-reeses-senior-bowl-practice-report-north-team/
2020 Senior Bowl: Winners, losers from Day 2 practices (Winner – North Team EDGE: Michigan’s Josh Uche, Utah’s Bradlee Anae, Michigan State’s Kenny Willekes and North Carolina Jason Strowbridge all had themselves a field day. Uche was winning with a speed and bend. Anae showed a blend of an elite first step and converting speed to power. ) (1-22-20): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2020/01/22/2020-senior-bowl-winners-losers-from-day-2-practices/
Senior Bowl 2020: Josh Jones dominates in trenches, Denzel Mims scorches down the field (Utah's Bradlee Anae and Michigan State's Kenny Willekes, two technicians, fended off offensive tackles with succinct pass-rushing maneuvers.) (1-22-20): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/senior-bowl-2020-josh-jones-dominates-in-trenches-denzel-mims-scorches-down-the-field/
Senior Bowl Defensive Linemen (Javon Kinlaw, South Carolina: If Javon Kinlaw wasn’t already going to be the darling of the Senior Bowl, he is now. Even before practices got going, Kinlaw pulled the media crowd with anecdotes from his early struggles during his JUCO days and constant reassurance of his drive to be the best — no matter what. No player “won” the media session more than the former Gamecock. Kinlaw’s drive to be the best isn’t just talk, either. His growth as a player is as clear as any prospect’s has ever been. After coming into the season heralded as a good-not-great, likely Day 2 prospect, Kinlaw’s stock absolutely skyrocketed over the course of the 2019 season. The first month of the year, in particular, was a major win for Kinlaw. In each of the first four games of the year, Kinlaw recorded a sack. Though he slowed down as the year went on, that was in part because teams felt compelled to keep his explosive ability at bay as much as possible. Kinlaw’s calling card is his ability to absolutely wreck a play in an instant. He can fly off the line of scrimmage, crush an offensive lineman’s lungs with his punch, and barrel right into the quarterback and/or running back, depending on what kind of play was called. Of course, those style of defensive tackles always get compared to Aaron Donald — and no, he isn’t Aaron Donald — but Kinlaw does seem to be one of the most explosive interior defensive linemen the NFL draft has seen in the past few years.) (1-22-20): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/evaluations/senior-bowl-defensive-linemen
Live observations from Wednesday’s 2020 Senior Bowl Practice (1:30 pm ET: Bradlee Anae & Kenny Willekes have been going back and forth trading pass-rushing moves before day 2 of practice starts in Mobile. There are over 50 combined sacks between those two. – Tommy Call) (1-22-20): Live observations from Wednesday’s 2020 Senior Bowl Practice
2020 Reese’s Senior Bowl Practice Report: North Team (Anae struggled to make an impact, which was very concerning given his talent. Some thought that a big week from Anae could push him into the top 50, unfortunately that plan is off to a rough start.) (1-21-20): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2020-reeses-senior-bowl-practice-report-north-team/
Senior Bowl weigh-ins: 20 prospects who hit the Lions benchmarks (Bradlee Anae, EDGE, Utah (6-3, 257, 31 7/8″ arms, 9 1/2″ hands): Anae’s arms are shorter than desired but he has found a way to work around that in college. The other numbers are solid.) (1-21-20): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/01/21/notes-senior-bowl-weigh-ins-detroit-lions/
Complete guide to the 2020 Senior Bowl (Sleeper to Watch - Bradlee Anae: The Utes’ defensive front was one of the most physical I saw all year long, and Anae was a big reason why. The 6-3, 265-pounder is a well-rounded prospect who can set the edge against the run, and get after opposing quarterbacks. Expect his arrow to be pointing up after a strong week of practice.) (1-20): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2020/01/20/senior-bowl-preview-2020-nfl-draft/
PFF 2020 Reese’s Senior Bowl Preview: players to watch, draft implications, schedule, team rosters and more (Bradlee Anae has been generating an absurd amount of pressure for the past three years. In fact, his 158 total pressures since 2017 leads all FBS players. He has a massive inventory of pass-rush moves but is limited by his athleticism and 235-pound frame. Anae is a day-two lock as of now and could rise from there if he wins at the Senior Bowl — as he did often against Pac-12 tackles.) (1-20-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-pff-2020-reeses-senior-bowl-preview-players-to-watch-draft-implications-schedule-team-rosters
TWENTYMAN: 10 North Team prospects to watch at Senior Bowl (2. Bradlee Anae, DE, Utah: Anae (6-3, 265) led the Utes in sacks in three seasons while at Utah. He's coming off a 13.5-sack 2019 campaign that also saw him record 14.0 tackles for loss, force a fumble and 41 tackles. The Lions need all the help they can get finding players who can consistently pressure the quarterback. The one-on-one pass-rush drills each day against the offensive linemen are huge all week for pass rushers like Anae.) (1-19-20): https://www.detroitlions.com/news/twentyman-10-north-team-prospects-to-watch-at-senior-bowl
Texans 2020 draft needs, fits, picks (Bradlee Anae, EDGE, Utah: Anae isn't going to turn heads at the combine but his tape is loaded with dizzying pass-rushing moves and a motor that never quits. He'd make plenty of sense as a stand-up rush linebacker in Romeo Crennel's scheme, and Houston could probably land him on Day 2.) (1-15-20): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-draft-texans-team-needs-draft-picks-prospects-to-watch-for-houston/
Bradlee Anae gives Utes one positive to remember about the Alamo Bowl, becomes all-time sacks leader (12-31-19): https://www.deseret.com/platform/amp/sports/2019/12/31/21045153/bradlee-anae-utah-utes-alamo-bowl-sacks-texas-longhorns
2019 College Bowl Preview: Liberty, Alamo, and Arizona Bowls (On the defensive line, defensive end Bradlee Anae and defensive tackle Leki Fotu are two of the most disruptive forces in college football and wreak havoc on opposing offensive lines. These two are near the top of their positions for the NFL Draft.) (12-31-19): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2019-college-bowl-previews-liberty-alamo-and-arizona-bowls/
Bowl Preview: Top 10 prospects to watch on Tuesday, December 31 (Bradlee Anae, EDGE, Utah, 6-4, 263, #6: Anae is the reason I started writing this article today. Anae wins in a variety of ways, including by bullrush, bending the edge, inside spin, swim move, all leading to 12.5 sacks and 13.5 tackles for loss on the season (29 and 39.5 respectively over his career). He is a Day 2 prospect who will play at the Senior Bowl, and if he ends up with the Lions coaching staff (assuming they accept the invitation to coach) expect them to use him in a JACK linebacker role — and potentially fall in love with him.) (12-31-19): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2019/12/31/detroit-lions-bowl-preview-top-10-prospects-watch/
Jaguars 2020 draft needs, fits, picks (Bradlee Anae, EDGE, Utah: On Day 2, the Jaguars may want to find a complementary piece to Allen on the outside, and a lack of elite athletic traits could push this Utah edge defender down on draft weekend. Then again, he's a master with his hands, can bend the edge tightly, and has an always humming motor at 6-3 and 260-ish pounds. He will be someone to watch at the NFL Combine.) (12-31-19): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-draft-jaguars-team-needs-draft-picks-prospects-to-watch-for-jacksonville/
Perfect 2020 NFL Draft fits for every non-playoff team (Earlier — Edge Bradlee Anae, Utah: Anae has a full pass-rushing toolbox already and racked up a 90.0 pass-rush grade this year.) (12-30-19): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-perfect-2020-nfl-draft-fits-for-every-non-playoff-team
Prospects to watch in Alamo Bowl (Bradlee Anae, EDGE: Anae is so relentless around the corner and he can win in a variety of ways. Just when you think he's going to just use a low, speedy outside rush all game, he hits the tackle with a swim move to the inside or bull rushes him right back into the quarterback. At Utah, Anae's been a steady producer with at least 10 tackles for loss in each of the past three seasons and 27 sacks since the start of 2017. He's listed at 6-3 and 265 pounds but looks smaller than that on the field, and his lack of length along with what appears to be only average athleticism are the two dings on his profile as a prospect. But Anae is someone you want on your team setting the edge and getting after the quarterback.) (12-30-19): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/alamo-bowl-time-tv-channel-2020-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-in-utah-vs-texas/
Utah's Bradlee Anae determined to help Utes finish on a high note (12-23-19): https://www.deseret.com/platform/amp/sports/2019/12/23/21032362/utah-utes-football-bradlee-anae-alamo-bowl-all-american
Sporting News 2019 college football All-Americans (DL: Bradlee Anae, Utah: Utah’s strength was a deep defensive line, and Anae emerged as a matchup nightmare off the edge. He had two games with three sacks this season and finished with 35 tackles and 12.5 sacks. Anae’s efforts on that side of the ball were a big reason why the Utes won the Pac-12 South Division for the second straight season.) (12-17-19): https://www.sportingnews.com/us/ncaa-football/news/sporting-news-2019-college-football-all-americans/b3bevye8lma310clpads6xo1w
ESPN College football All-America team (DE: Bradlee Anae, Utah: For the third consecutive season, Anae led Utah in sacks (12.5), and his 29.5 career sacks rank fourth among active FBS players. The 6-3, 265-pound senior was one of the Pac-12's most dynamic edge disruptors and a driving force on a Utes squad that ranked third nationally in total defense and tied for fifth nationally in scoring defense.) (12-16-19): https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/28293527/college-football-all-america-team
SI's 2019 College Football All-America Team (DL: Bradlee Anae, Utah: Anae checks in at seventh nationally in sacks with 12.5, including a three-sack effort in a game where the Utes shut down a then-ranked Arizona State team. The 6'3" senior from Hawaii has made 26 solo tackles while headlining a stout Utah defensive line in 2019.) (12-11-19): https://www.si.com/college/2019/12/11/college-football-all-america-team
USA TODAY College football All-American team (Anae (13.5 tackles for loss) is one of three Utah defenders to earn All-America honors.) (12-11-19): https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaaf/2019/12/11/college-football-all-american-team-led-joe-burrow-chase-young/4398195002/
NFL draft: 20 prospect observations from conference title game weekend (3. Speaking of that Utah defense, there are a lot of players there I am high on for the 2020 NFL draft. But two of them who are vying for Round 2 consideration, EDGE Bradlee Anae and DT Leki Fotu, had disappointing games Friday night.) (12-9-19): https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl-draft-20-prospect-observations-from-conference-title-game-weekend-182109634.html
Scouting the 2019 Pac-12 Championship: Oregon vs Utah (Edge rusher Bradlee Anae has improved his draft stock and possesses the speed as well as quickness to give Throckmorton fits.) (12-5-19): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/scouting-the-2019-pac-12-championship-oregon-vs-utah/
College Football: 2019 PFF All-Pac-12 Team (First Team: Bradlee Anae, Utah: The first of many Utes on the Pac-12 defensive team of the year, Anae had a season that rivaled the best in the country. Anae’s 90.1 pass-rush grade is the highest in the conference — and it isn't even close. He has almost single-handedly generated pressure on opposing quarterbacks for Utah, posting a pass-rush win rate of 21.8%, best in the Pac-12. His 57 total pressures are the most in the conference and fifth-most among all edge defenders in the nation.) (12-2-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-2019-pff-all-pac-12-team
Grading 2020 Senior Bowl invites (EDGE BRADLEE ANAE, UTAH: Anae is an absolute technician off the edge who has given some of the Pac-12’s best tackles – USC’s Austin Jackson and Washington’s Trey Adams – fits this year. Only Ohio State’s Chase Young and Michigan’s Josh Uche have higher pass-rushing grades than Anae’s 90.5 this season.) (11-26-19): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-grading-2020-senior-bowl-invitees
Bradlee Anae awarded Pac-12's defensive lineman of the week (11-26-19): https://www.si.com/college/utah/football/bradlee-anae-awarded-pac-12s-defensive-lineman-of-the-week
Bradlee Anae awarded Pac-12's defensive lineman of the week (11-26-19): https://www.si.com/college/utah/football/bradlee-anae-awarded-pac-12s-defensive-lineman-of-the-week
College Football Week 10 Eckrich Pac 12 Team of the Week (Bradlee Anae, Utah: Anae continues to dominate game in and game out, this time making life difficult for Jacob Eason and the Washington offense. He was able to grab 11 total pressures, just behind Rashed Jr. for most in the country. His 24.5% win rate was third-best in the Pac 12, beating his blocks with consistency all evening. ) (11-4-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-week-10-eckrich-pac-12-team-of-the-week
NFL draft matchups to watch: Big test for Georgia QB Jake Fromm (Utah EDGE Bradlee Anae vs. Washington OTs: It has been a bit of a strange season for Bradlee Anae, a high-motor pass rusher who dotted a few All-America teams in the preseason after a breakout 2018 campaign but who hasn’t quite matched that hype this season on a consistent basis. Still, in recent weeks, there have been enough signs that Anae has picked things back up. Three of Anae’s seven sacks came in the opener against Northern Illinois. But three more came in the Utes’ last game two weeks ago against Arizona State. Leading the Pac-12 in sacks for a second straight year could be difficult at this point, but we like the fact that Anae’s pressures have increased in recent games. Anae isn’t the most explosive or physically gifted edge player in this class. He lacks great bend and balance and thrives mostly with high effort and strong technique. That’s why this matchup against Washington’s tackles, LT Trey Adams and RT Jared Hilbers, is such a fascinating one. Adams has answered some of the injury questions that have plagued his career; without those, he’d be considered among the better exterior blockers in all of college football. Hilbers, who filled in last season for Adams at left tackle, has done a bang-up job in moving back to the right side this season. Despite a challenging outing against USC, the 6-7, 316-pound Hilbers been incredibly efficient this season and absolutely has raised his NFL profile by playing well the past two seasons at each spot. Anae moves around, rushing from both sides (and even kicking inside on passing downs), so we expect to see him face both players, along with the Huskies’ interior blockers. This is an important tape for all three players who are prime candidates to end up in Mobile for the Senior Bowl.) (10-31-19): https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl-draft-matchups-big-test-for-georgia-qb-jake-fromm-171330375.html
NFL DRAFT PROSPECT SHOWDOWN: WEEK 10 (Anae's profile as an EDGE player is the opposite of Fotu's as a defensive tackle. Anae is a whirlwind as a pass rusher, slicing and dicing past offensive tackles at 6-foot-3 and 265-pounds. The senior pass-rusher moves exceptionally well for a player with as much weight on his frame as he carries. Through six games in 2019, Anae has picked up seven sacks, which is just one shy of his career-high 7.5 sacks that he recorded in 12 games last season. Barring a complete fizzle to the end of the season, Anae should waltz into a 10-sack season and propel himself firmly into the top-100 discussion.) (10-30-19): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/prospect-vs-prospect/nfl-draft-prospect-showdown-week-10
2020 NFL Draft Stock - Week 9 (Down - Bradley Anae, DE, Utah: Anae is a productive player for the Utes, but team sources say that Anae has some skill-set limitations. It sounds like his listed measurements of 6-foot-3, 265 pounds may be sightly exaggerated, and he does not have dynamic speed off the edge. Evaluators feel that Anae is more of a mid-round pick because of his skill-set limitations.) (10-29-19): http://walterfootball.com/draft2020stock_09.php
College Football Week 8: Eckrich Pac 12 Team of the Week (Bradlee Anae, Utah: Utah completely shut down an Arizona State offense that was red hot off a 38-point explosion over Washington State. Anae tormented the Sun Devils quarterback, generating four total pressures off the edge—three of which were sacks—showcasing his ability to finish once he gets to the QB. His performance awarded him the conference’s best pass-rush grade, in addition to the nation's eighth-best grade among edge defenders.) (10-21-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-week-8-eckrich-pac-12-team-of-the-week
College Football: Week 4 Pac-12 Takeaways (A bright spot on defense, edge defender Bradlee Anae finished with five total pressures, three more than any other defender on the Utes defense.) (9-21-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-week-4-pac-12-takeaways
Dominant efforts from top NFL prospects highlight USC’s upset of No. 10 Utah (Fellow Senior Bowl candidate Bradlee Anae was more productive, according to the stat-sheet, registering five tackles, including two for loss and a sack. The 6-3, 260 pound Anae, who checked in at 26th on my Big Board) is the two-time defending PAC-12 sack champion. The sack you see below is his 4th of the season. It shows his burst, quality hand usage and bend around the corner – traits which could earn him first round consideration. The duo could be primarily competing with each other to earn the Morris Trophy this year as the best defensive lineman in the PAC-12.) (9-21-19): https://mavensports.io/nfldraftscout/news/dominant-efforts-from-top-nfl-prospects-highlight-usc-s-upset-of-no-10-utah-1p0KPfbZHkCujSoNhupr0A/
College Football, Week 2: Immediate Takeaways (Edge defender Bradlee Anae recorded eight pressures including four combined sacks and hits.) (9-8-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-week-2-immediate-takeaways
2020 NFL Draft prospects from the Pac-12: Oregon's Justin Herbert the headliner, but keep an eye on Utah (Bradlee Anae, EDGE
Anae's very active -- albeit not heavy -- hands instantly pop on film, which is a good start to a pass-rusher profile. Now listed at 6-3 and 265 pounds, he didn't look nearly that filled out in 2018. The above-average athlete for the edge-rusher spot had 14 tackles for loss and 7.5 sacks to go along with three pass breakups as a junior. At times he plays high and despite jagged movements and a relatively high motor, he's not overly powerful. With more strength in his punch, Anae could be a major riser during the pre-draft process.) (8-16-19): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-draft-prospects-from-the-pac-12-oregons-justin-herbert-the-headliner-but-keep-an-eye-on-utah/
Anae's very active -- albeit not heavy -- hands instantly pop on film, which is a good start to a pass-rusher profile. Now listed at 6-3 and 265 pounds, he didn't look nearly that filled out in 2018. The above-average athlete for the edge-rusher spot had 14 tackles for loss and 7.5 sacks to go along with three pass breakups as a junior. At times he plays high and despite jagged movements and a relatively high motor, he's not overly powerful. With more strength in his punch, Anae could be a major riser during the pre-draft process.) (8-16-19): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-draft-prospects-from-the-pac-12-oregons-justin-herbert-the-headliner-but-keep-an-eye-on-utah/
NFL Draft: Utah’s defense could lead them to Pac-12 title (EDGE Bradlee Anae: The most productive player you’ll find on Utah’s defense, Bradlee Anae returns as the Pac-12’s leading sack leader from last season. The Hawaii native also has 26 career tackles for loss on the ledger. He returns for his senior year with not only the goal of winning a conference championship. Additionally, he’s chasing the Utah sack record held by Hunter Dimick. Needing 13.5 sacks, he’ll need to average just about a sack per game and nearly double his career-high of 7.5 which was posted last season. Like Fotu, Anae also returns as a First-Team All-Pac-12 honoree and comes from a strong lineage of athletes. His father played at BYU and was drafted into the USFL. His uncle is the offensive coordinator at Virginia. Anae also has a pair of sisters who played college volleyball, one of which was an All-American for the Utes. Known for his pass rush prowess, Anae flashes a lot of seasoning in that department. For one, he’s routinely the first man off the ball. He has a quick first step which he utilizes to get his hips parallel to his blocker. From there, his go-to move is the rip move which he often combos from a pull. Anae isn’t a natural bender around the arch. However, he has enough twitch to where he can win with speed and effort. While Anae excels as a pass rusher, he’s established himself as a stout run defender as well. He can blow up runs in the backfield with his ability to shed and stack. However, Anae can get overpowered at times, and his play strength is one of his most significant weaknesses. After receiving a third-fourth round grade from the NFL Draft advisory board, Anae returns to Provo looking for a conference championship, the school sack record and an improvement in draft stock. He’s been dominant at times for Utah but will need to elevate his play as a senior to fulfill those goals.) (8-9-19): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/nfl-draft-utahs-defense-could-lead-them-to-pac-12-title/
Pac-12 Top 25 NFL Draft prospects: Studs at the skill positions (Perhaps the most underrated prospect in the conference, Bradlee Anae has posted monster production for the Utes over the past couple of seasons. My pick for Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year, Anae’s game is reminiscent of former Washington State Cougar, Hercules Mata’afa.) (8-1-19): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/pac-12-top-25-nfl-draft-prospects/
DE Jonathan Greenard:
Scouting Reports:
Florida Profile: https://floridagators.com/sports/football/roster/jonathan-greenard/11689
NFL.com: https://www.nfl.com/prospects/jonathan-greenard?id=32194752-4539-7948-6c85-f4afd61fadd6
Draft Network: https://thedraftnetwork.com/player/jonathan-greenard/qWayCGkZ4J
Walterfootball: https://walterfootball.com/scoutingreport2020jgreenard.php
2020 NFL draft: Jonathan Greenard scouting report: https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2020/04/01/2020-nfl-draft-jonathan-greenard-scouting-report/
Articles:
Building The Perfect 2020 EDGE Defender (Run Defense: Jonathan Greenard, Florida - While at Louisville, Jon Greenard was a good-not-great player who had not made much of a name for himself as far as NFL Draft stock goes. He was fairly productive, but he was not special as an underclassmen in such a way that earned him much hype. Greenard opted to follow DC Todd Grantham to Florida for his senior season, however, and that decision earned him a ton of money. The UL transfer erupted in his lone season with the Gators, earning 15.5 tackles for loss in 12 games. No other player in the SEC racked up more tackles for loss. Other top prospects such as K'Lavon Chaisson, Derrick Brown, and Patrick Queen all came in a few tackles for loss short of Florida's one-year star. Greenard shines in every aspect of run defense. More often than not, we think of great run defenders on the edge as those who play with excellent leverage and technique, similar to Khalid Kareem a few slides back. Greenard can very much play that way, showing off a great understanding of how to play low, work to his gap, and maintain an anchor in that gap. Likewise, Greenard has the lateral quicks to bounce from gap to gap or from an opposing blocker's shoulder to another, giving him the short-area coverage to make sudden disruptions behind the line of scrimmage.) (4-9-20): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/evaluations/building-perfect-2020-edge-defender
2020 Draft: 5 groups of edge rushers (Greenard has first-round highs. They just need to happen more often. At 6-3 and a rocked-up 263 pounds with the ability to tightly wrap the corner, the Florida product looks the part. With more active hands, he could be one of the best value picks on Day 2.) (3-30-20): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-draft-examining-chase-young-klavon-chaisson-and-rest-of-the-edge-rusher-class-by-type/
Meet Jonathan Greenard, Florida's big-play pass rusher (3-19-20): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2020/03/19/meet-jonathan-greenard-floridas-big-play-pass-rusher/
2020 NFL draft: Possible first-round QB Jacob Eason lands at No. 87 in our rankings (81. Florida EDGE Jonathan Greenard (6-foot-3, 263 pounds): Yahoo Sports draft grade: 5.79. The lowdown: After his solid career at Louisville was cut short by a wrist injury in the 2018 season opener, after a mere 10 snaps, Greenard transferred to the Gators, reuniting with defensive coordinator Todd Grantham (who recruited Greenard when they were with the Cardinals). It was a terrific decision, as Greenard was named first-team All-SEC with a 9.5-sack, three-forced fumble season in 12 games (with two missed because of injury), outshining returning standout Jabari Zuniga in his one season in Gainesville. Greenard isn’t an electric rusher around the edge, but he brings outstanding intensity, solid burst and outstanding hand work to his pass-rush approach. He wins with a nice rip move and solid bend, has a great inside rush counter and can finish with regularity. Greenard also is a hard edge setter and looks to dislodge the ball every time he can. The big knock on Greenard — other than his durability, which will require some scrutiny — is the fact that he didn’t consistently win as a pass rusher against top-tier talent. Although he produced like a madman, racking up six sacks in his final three games, they came against Missouri, Florida State and Virginia. In games against Auburn and Georgia, teams that featured pairs of 2020 tackle prospects, Greenard was held sack-free and relatively in check. (He also was slowed by the ankle injury, which might have had an effect on those games.) Greenard has a build that suggests he might need to be a 3-4 rush end in a defense such as that of the Pittsburgh Steelers or Chicago Bears, and he likely will need to show he can diversify his game. Greenard also can play too hot under the collar and overrun plays. But following a terrific 2019 season, there’s a lot of promise that he can turn into a solid, productive pro in the right scheme. By the numbers: Greenard scored the one touchdown by a Gator other than on a run or pass play. It came on his 80-yard scoop-and-score in the third quarter of a 56-0 blowout of Vanderbilt. Interesting fact: Greenard’s final game at Louisville came at Camping World Stadium in Orlando where he suffered that devastating wrist injury against No. 1 Alabama. And his first game as a Gator — wearing a heavy wrist wrap to protect himself — the following year came at the same stadium vs. Miami. “I can face my fears,” Greenard said before the game. He could — and he did. Greenard harassed the Hurricanes with six tackles (two for losses), 1.5 sacks and five QB hurries. Draft range: Rounds 2 or 3) (3-11-20): https://sports.yahoo.com/2020-nfl-draft-possible-firstround-qb-jacob-eason-lands-at-no-87-in-our-rankings-015738570.html
Lions had formal meeting with Florida EDGE Jonathan Greenard (3-10-20): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/03/10/lions-had-formal-meeting-with-florida-edge-jonathan-greenard/
Forget the 40: Jonathan Greenard Excelled at the NFL Combine (3-1-20): https://www.si.com/college/florida/football/florida-gators-jonathan-greenard-nfl-draft-combine
Lions 2020 Combine Preview: EDGE Rusher (Jonathan Greenard, Florida: Greenard was a graduate transfer from Louisville and had a very productive 2019 season with the Gators. He ended up being selected as a first-team All-SEC player after 15.5 tackles for loss and 9.5 sacks. Despite the stats, he doesn't possess the bend or explosive first step that many teams look for in a prospect. He did play standing up on occasion and moved inside as well which gives him a little more versatility than most men his size. In saying that, he did his best work with his hand in the dirt. Due to his strength and length, the Lions could target Greenard in the middle rounds.) (2-24-20): https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/detroit-lions-2020-nfl-combine-preview-edge-rusher
Draft EDGE rankings: Young reigns (Tier 3 - Jonathan Greenard, Florida: The Louisville transfer had his best season to date. He shows good awareness and a good football IQ. Greenard is most comfortable as a 4-3 defensive end. He needs to remove the inside spin move because it has not worked. The Georgia native has been more effective using a club rip to gain leverage inside. The spin move has been more effective outside.) (2-18-20): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-draft-edge-rusher-rankings-chase-young-in-a-class-by-himself-but-there-could-be-many-early-picks/
2020 NFL Combine: Defensive End, Edge Rusher Prospects, Invites, What To Watch For (9. Jonathan Greenard, Florida 6-3, 263 (2): NFL Combine What Matters: There’s a whole lot to like as long as he can stay healthy. He missed all of 2018 with an arm problem, and was banged up throughout his year at Florida. On effort and upside, he’s a first rounder, but the medical evaluation has to be great.) (2-11-20): https://collegefootballnews.com/2020/02/2020-nfl-combine-defensive-end-edge-rusher-prospects-invites-what-to-watch-for
2020 NFL Draft Stock - Post-Senior Bowl (Up - Jon Greenard, DE, Florida: Greenard didn't light up the Senior Bowl, but he has been rising with teams and benefits from a weaker class of edge pass-rushing talent. Greenard had a good 2019 season for the Gators and was one of the top quarterback hunters in the SEC. Previously, Greenard had played well for Louisville, so he has a track record of getting after the quarterback over multiple seasons. Team sources believe Greenard will probably go in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft, but he has a shot at going late in Round 1.) (2-4-20): http://walterfootball.com/draft2020stock_21.php
2020 Reese’s Senior Bowl Practice Report: South Team (Tuesday - Similar to his teammate, Greenard will likely get a top 50 grade from me. His long arm is deadly and was strong in 1on1s. Wednesday - Greenard showed off his length and a number of pass rush moves in his arsenal. Really fun prospect with great measurables and awesome length. The competition between him and Zuniga for the better prospect is going to be fun. Analysis - The first play of team practice on Tuesday, an edge rusher timed the snap so perfectly, he was next to the quarterback before the tackle even got out of his stance. Everyone in the stadium let out an audible “gasp.” That edge rusher was Jonathan Greenard. Greenard dominated all week and this week improved his draft stock, if that was possible.) (1-24-20): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2020-reeses-senior-bowl-practice-report-south-team/2/
Senior Bowl 2020 recap: Wide receivers turn in a dominant performance on Day 3 (Alabama edge rusher Terrell Lewis has worked inside and out with his rushes, and his long arms have kept blockers off his frame. Much of the same goes for Florida's Jonathan Greenard, and he's bigger and more athletically gifted than Lewis. ) (1-23-20): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/senior-bowl-2020-recap-wide-receivers-turn-in-a-dominant-performance-on-day-3/
2020 Senior Bowl: Thursday's South Team Practice Report (Florida edge rusher Jon Greenard had a sack in the team scrimmage after flying around the edge for a sack. Greenard has had a solid week rushing the passer.) (1-23-20): http://walterfootball.com/seniorbowl2020practice6.php
2020 Senior Bowl: Wednesday's South Team Practice Report (Another potential 3-4 outside linebacker is Florida's Jon Greenard, and he had a mixed outing on Wednesday. Greenard lost some one-on-one reps when offenive linemen were able to get into his chest. As a pro, he could stand to improve his ability to shed blocks. On the positive side, Greenard showed some pass-coverage skills by running with LSU tight end Stephen Sullivan on a corner post route. Sullivan had slight separation, and Oklahoma quarterback Jalen Hurts dropped in a good pass to him for the completion. In the team scrimmage, Greenard also had Justin Herbert dead for a sack after reading a bootleg well to get into Herbert's face just as he turned around.) (1-22-20): http://walterfootball.com/seniorbowl2020practice4.php
Senior Bowl: Josh Jones dominates (On the outside, Florida edge rusher Jonathan Greenard has floated through drills with ease on most occasions. His burst is elite, and he's very flexible in his hips and ankles, so he changes directions in a hurry and can bend the corner. ) (1-22-20): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/senior-bowl-2020-josh-jones-dominates-in-trenches-denzel-mims-scorches-down-the-field/
Senior Bowl Defensive Linemen (Jonathan Greenard, Florida: The new guy on campus in 2019, Jonathan Greenard quickly became a Florida Gators fan favorite. After spending most of his career at Louisville, partly under DC Todd Grantham, Greenard decided to follow Grantham to Florida to finish out his college career. He had a stellar 2019 campaign after having sat out in 2018. Greenard is a bulky end at 6-foot-3, 263 pounds, but he doesn’t let a few extra pounds slow him down from getting to the quarterback. His low, thick frame gives him a natural leverage advantage and he doesn’t waste time in packing a punch right into an offensive lineman’s chest in order to get where he needs to be. In Grantham’s defense, Greenard has had experience playing from a stand-up and a three-down technique, and it probably doesn’t matter which he ends up playing in the NFL. So long as Greenard is slotted as a strong-side end and can be used as a blunt-force weapon in the run game, whether he is standing up or not won’t matter a whole lot. That being said, alignment is worth exploring with regards to third downs (and other obvious passing downs). Greenard can kick inside and be a “sub-rusher” in defensive packages meant to feature a smaller, faster defensive line to get after the quarterback. While no comparison is 1:1, and it’s tough to compare any player to a Defensive Player of the Year candidate, Greenard has a bit of Za’Darius Smith to his game. Smith was a mid-round pick for the Baltimore Ravens back in 2015. After a couple of years as a developmental and bench player there, Smith blossomed into a versatile force in Baltimore’s front before taking his talents to Green Bay and stepping up his game even further. For creative defensive coordinators, the versatility and flexibility those kinds of players bring along can be exceptionally valuable. ) (1-22-20): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/evaluations/senior-bowl-defensive-linemen
Senior Bowl weigh-ins: 20 prospects who hit the Lions benchmarks (Jonathan Greenard, EDGE, Florida (6-3, 262, 34 1/2″ arms, 9″ hands): Another potential JACK linebacker who hits all the measurements, Greenard played the pass-rushing BUCK role for the Gators.) (1-21-20): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/01/21/notes-senior-bowl-weigh-ins-detroit-lions/
Live from the 2020 Reese’s Senior Bowl: Tuesday Practice Observations (3:25 pm ET: Florida EDGE Jonathan Greenard just dominated South Carolina State OT Alex Taylor; explosive first step and toasted him. Greenard has been impressive so far here at the Senior Bowl. – AJ Schulte) (1-21-20): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/live-from-the-2020-reeses-senior-bowl-tuesday-practice-observations/
Complete guide to the 2020 Senior Bowl (There may not be any first-round prospects in this group, but there are some productive rushers from Power 5 schools who have a chance to do their draft stock a favor. Greenard’s nonstop motor made him a key cog for the Gators after Jabari Zuniga’s injury, while Baun and Robinson made big plays consistently for their respective teams. All should shine in 1-on-1s down in Mobile.) (1-20): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2020/01/20/senior-bowl-preview-2020-nfl-draft/
PFF 2020 Reese’s Senior Bowl Preview: players to watch, draft implications, schedule, team rosters and more (After missing all of 2018 at Louisville due to injury, Jonathan Greenard wasn’t expected to be one of the highest-graded edge defenders in 2019 — yet, he was. Greenard finished the year with an elite 90.4 PFF overall grade and was valuable both against the run and in the pass-rush, producing grades above 87.0 in each facet. That being said, there’s a lot of inconsistency in Greenard’s play. His 2019 season was nowhere near what we saw from him in the past, making him a risk/reward prospect to watch.) (1-20-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-pff-2020-reeses-senior-bowl-preview-players-to-watch-draft-implications-schedule-team-rosters
15 players who could make sense for Detroit Lions in Senior Bowl (Jonathan Greenard, DE/OLB, Florida: If you’re trying to picture Greenard in Detroit’s defensive scheme, there likely would be a lot of overlap with how the team uses Devon Kennard. The Florida defender wins more with his technique and motor than with raw athleticism, but he still managed to rack up 9.5 sacks and a bunch more pressures in 2019.) (1-15-20): https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/01/15/15-players-who-could-make-sense-detroit-lions-senior-bowl/4480357002/
2019 College Bowl Preview: Orange Bowl – Florida vs Virginia (Jonathan Greenard is a downhill thumper that is likely only useful as an early-down linebacker at the next level. He is a fundamentally sound player, and, at 263 pounds, could thrive in a role as a pass-rushing linebacker in the 3-4.) (12-30-19): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2019-college-bowl-preview-orange-bowl-florida-vs-virginia/
Draft prospects for Lions fans to watch in college football selection committee, playoff games (Florida LB Jonathan Greenard -- The Lions have struggled to pressure the quarterback this season, and Jonathan Greenard could be a great value pick to address that need. PFF graded the linebacker at 91.3 overall and with the second-best run defense grade in the nation at 91.2. Greenard was also credited with 41 quarterback pressures, nine sacks and 15 tackles for loss. Before transferring to Florida, he put up 9.5 sacks and 22.5 tackles for loss in two seasons at Louisville. Kiper ranks him as the No. 10 outside linebacker while PFF has him at No. 74 overall. He’s currently projected outside of the first round, but his versatility at 6-foot-4, 260-pounds is sure to catch some eyes.) (12-27-19): https://www.mlive.com/lions/2019/12/draft-prospects-for-lions-fans-to-watch-in-college-football-selection-committee-playoff-games.html
Prospects to watch in Orange Bowl (Jon Greenard, EDGE: The transfer from Louisville has been a ferocious pass rusher for the Gators this season, with nine tackles for loss and 15 sacks. He also knocked down three passes and forced two fumbles. He doesn't necessarily play to his listed size of 6-4 and 263 pounds but can convert some speed to power and bends the corner more impressively than most defenders his size. With more effective hands while in his rush, Greenard can be a productive niche pass rusher at the NFL level because of his athleticism and length on the outside. ) (12-27-19): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/orange-bowl-time-tv-channel-2020-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-in-florida-vs-virginia/
College Football Playoff and bowl game preview: players to watch and betting projections (Headline of the Game: Dynamic edge duo Greenard and Zuniga are back in business - After seeing very few snaps together due to injuries, the edge duo of Jonathan Greenard and Jabari Zuniga is reportedly set to take the field on December 30th. The two have wreaked havoc when healthy. Greenard has recorded an elite PFF grade of 91.3 and produced 41 pressures in his 11 games this season. Zuniga came away with 13 pressures on 88 pass-rushes and earned an elite 90.7 grade. As two highly touted Senior Bowl attendees, you won’t want to miss this one.) (12-20-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-playoff-and-bowl-game-preview-players-to-watch-and-betting-projections
2020 NFL Draft Stock - Week 14 (Up - Jon Greenard, DE, Florida: Greenard had a great start to this season before an injury cost him time and slowed him down in the middle of the year. He struggled against Georgia, and he needed to finish the season on a high note to help rehab his draft stock, which he against Florida State with a three-sack game. Greenard blew by the Seminoles blockers and caused havoc in the backfield. The Florida State tape will help to show Greenard's natural speed, intelligence, and pass-rushing moves off the edge.) (12-3-19): http://walterfootball.com/draft2020stock_14.php
College Football: 2019 PFF All-SEC Team (First Team: Jonathan Greenard, Florida - Louisville transfer Jonathan Greenard finished the season as one of nine edge defenders with an elite grade in 2019. One of the more balanced players along any defensive line in collegiate football, Greenard earned 86.1 and 91.2 grades in pass-rush and run-defense, respectively. Jabari Zuniga and David Reese were once thought to be the leading talents along the Gators' front-seven. Still, it was Greenard who shined for the duration of the season, securing 48 total quarterback pressures as well as 19 stops in run defense.) (12-2-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-2019-pff-all-sec-team
PFF College Football: 25 observations ahead of Week 14 (12. FLORIDA Edge Jonathan Greenard — 91.0 overall grade: The graduate transfer from Louisville has made himself at home in Gainesville and been the Gators’ best player in 2019. The current fifth-highest graded edge defender has 35 total quarterback pressures, including five sacks, and 21 stops.) (11-29-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-25-observations-ahead-of-week-14
Grading 2020 Senior Bowl invites (EDGE JONATHAN GREENARD, FLORIDA: Greenard has been one of the biggest breakout players in the country this season, with a 90.8 overall grade after a previous career-high of 76.4. The Louisville transfer is still a tad limited athletically and has struggled to win the edge against better tackles.) (11-26-19): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-grading-2020-senior-bowl-invitees
Five possible Detroit Lions 2020 draft prospects: Week 11 (Jon Greenard, DE, Florida: A graduate transfer, Greenard jumped into a starting role with the Gators, filling the rush linebacker role previously manned by Jachai Polite. After missing the 2018 season with a wrist injury, Greenard has picked up where he left off from his time at Louisville, recording 37 tackles and 4.0 sacks through seven games. As a junior in 2017, nearly a third of his 48 tackles came behind the line of scrimmage. He possesses good burst off the edge with a healthy set of pass-rush moves that allow him to challenge opposing offensive linemen. ) (11-8-19): https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/11/08/five-possible-detroit-lions-2020-draft-prospects-week-11/2515206001/
College Football Week 10: 2020 NFL Draft Scouting Notes (MATCHUP OF THE WEEK - Andrew Thomas vs. Jonathan Greenard: Thomas once again faced a top tier pass-rusher and once again handled himself admirably. On 36 pass-blocking snaps on the day, he allowed a grand total of one pressure. The majority of those saw him going up against one of the draft classes' biggest risers in Jonathan Greenard. The one time Greenard did get him came on a play-action pass with 12:17 remaining in the fourth quarter where Thomas overshot and Greenard took advantage with an inside move. Georgia also did far more pure dropback passing than normal as Thomas’ 18 true pass sets were the second most in a game from him all season. Greenard’s inability to consistently win the edge was once again a concern, as he’s showing his flaws more after a hot start to the season) (11-5-19): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-college-football-week-10-2020-nfl-draft-scouting-notes
Back to the Future: A clash in the Swamp has 2020 NFL Draft implications (Matchup to Watch: Florida EDGE Jonathan Greenard vs. Georgia OT Isaiah Wilson - We thought Jabari Zuniga was going to be the only pass rusher to watch out of the Swamp this year. Still, Louisville transfer Jonathan Greenard has proven everything otherwise, as he has burst onto the scene out of nowhere. He missed some time with an injury, but this will be his first week back, and it will be against a highly touted Georgia offensive line prospect in Isaiah Wilson, who might declare even though he is only a redshirt sophomore. Greenard had a special sophomore year at Louisville with 16.5 tackles for loss and 6.5 sacks, but he is on his way to another good season. He is up to four sacks and 6.5 tackles for loss while also registering 31 pressures on the year. Greenard’s traits are through the explosiveness and violence he brings to this Florida defense. When I talk about setting the tone, Greenard is a tone-setter and a leader on this loaded Gators defense. The jump off the snap is something that pops out immediately with Greenard. He is an explosive athlete that can beat unprepared tackles with ease around the arc. But he is not tight in his ankles or hips and showcases some bend even as he is being held here. The ankle flexion is encouraging to see. His versatility to be put at 3-4 OLB or 4-3 DE is a plus for his draft stock. He doesn’t have to do much in terms of his hands and arms; other than turn his shoulder away to decrease the surface area the tackle has to block him on. The final rip through is violent and allows him to get this sack. Now, run defense is one of Greenard’s unheralded strengths that do not get heralded enough by people. Here Greenard does a great job of having low pad level after an explosive get off, converted that to power in with strike to reset the line, and then stacking and shedding the block to make the play. It’s a great technique to hold the edge, and Greenard will need to do it this weekend. Isaiah Wilson, on the other hand, from Greenard, is a blue-chip 5-star recruit who was offered by all the top programs in the country, but the big 6’7″ tackle decided that it was best to head down south to Georgia. He was a freshman All-American and All-SEC last year as he only surrendered four sacks all of last season in his freshman season. This year, Wilson has only played five games due to injury but has only given up one sack. Still, Greenard might be the guy the buck that trend, although Wilson’s great footwork and mobility can neutralize Greenard’s spectacular explosiveness and first step. This is a fantastic rep by Wilson. Smooth, calculated footwork as he mirrors the pass rushers angle. The better part of this is his hand placement, though. At the point of attack, he gets his hands inside due to an acceptable pad level and holds them firm, even batting away attempted counters. The pass rusher tries to bull rush him, but Wilson’s anchor is more than firm due to a secure base from that good technical footwork. It’s textbook pass protection right here. Run blocking is all about movement up front, and although this is not the cleanest block you will ever see from Wilson on tape, it’s an incredibly effective block. He is the edge blocker here, and he explodes off the line but never gets too upright, and he can wash out the outside contain to open this side up blocking wise. Movement is enormous, and Wilson pushes the edge defender out of his outside contain gap, and the result is a massive gain. ) (11-2-19): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/back-to-the-future-a-clash-in-the-swamp-has-2020-nfl-draft-implications/
NFL DRAFT PROSPECT SHOWDOWN: WEEK 10 (Greenard is in a similar recent injury boat. Like Zuniga, an ankle injury has bugged Greenard of late, but it will not hold him out of the famed Florida-Georgia game. Greenard has been healthy for most of the season and has been a disruptive force when on the field. While not quite as gifted as Zuniga, particularly with regards to flexibility, but he plays like a bull seeing red and won’t stop until he gets to the quarterback. Greenard’s raw power is often overwhelming, though his effectiveness in working the outside shoulder of offensive tackles can run hot-and-cold. Greenard certainly projects as a strong-side defensive end who majors in run defense and minors in pushing the pocket as a pass-rusher. Overall, Thomas should win the day. At the very least, even if he loses a few reps, Thomas should fare better than every other offensive tackle has against this Gators duo. If Thomas is going to lose to anyone it will most likely be Zuniga’s speed and flash, not Greenard’s strength and mean streak. Expect QB Jake Fromm to remain clean in the pocket, at least relative to how clean most of Florida’s previous opposing QBs have been. Advantage: Thomas) (10-30-19): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/prospect-vs-prospect/nfl-draft-prospect-showdown-week-10
NFL Draft: Greenard and Farley lead Week 6 Risers and Sliders (Risers - Jonathan Greenard/Edge/Florida: Greenard started the season hot and there’s been no let-up since the first game. He was omnipresent against the Auburn Tigers and a disruptive force that was impossible to stop. He finished the game with 6 tackles and 3 quarterback hits, which might as well have been recorded as sacks. Greenard beat blockers off the snap while showing terrific quickness and explosion in his game. He’s fast up the field, shows great balance rushing the edge, and easily changes direction to make plays in backside pursuit. There was some concern about how Greenard would return off the wrist injury which prematurely ended his season in 2018, but he looks stronger and more disruptive than ever.) (10-7-19): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/nfl-draft-greenard-and-farley-lead-week-6-risers-and-sliders/
NCAA College Football Live Blog with Tony Pauline: Week 6 (The Florida EDGE defender that gets the most attention is Jabari Zuniga, and rightfully so because he’s an excellent player. However Zuniga has been injured for parts of the season. Stepping up as been Jonathan Greenard, a Louisville transfer. Greenard has shown good burst and a hot motor. This season he’s accumulated 5.5 tackles for loss, 4 sacks, a forced fumble, and an interception. Greenard might not be the same level prospect as Zuniga, but he should hear his name called in April. He’s currently graded as a early day 3 prospect on my board.) (10-5-19): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/ncaa-college-football-live-blog-with-tony-pauline-week-6/
2020 NFL draft: 5 prospect matchups to watch in Week 6 (Both tackles will have the responsibility of keeping Nix upright on Saturday afternoon against two potential top-100 edge defenders in Jabari Zuniga and Jonathan Greenard. Zuniga and Greenard have combined for six sacks through five games. Zuniga is a quick penetrator, who possesses strong hands and never gives blockers an easy rep as a pass rusher, always pursuing the ball. Meanwhile, Greenard lacks hand usage, but he finds his top speed quickly to make it difficult for tackles to keep him at bay.) (10-5-19): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2019/10/05/2020-nfl-draft-5-prospect-matchups-to-watch-in-week-6/
NFL draft: Massive game for QB Jordan Love highlights 2020 prospects to watch this week (The Gators’ bookend pass rusher, Jonathan Greenard, also has opened eyes this season. The Louisville transfer is a more well-built base end who racks up plays in the backfield with his strong, consistent effort and knack for finishing. Greenard looks fully healed from last season’s wrist injury and currently leads the SEC with four sacks. At 6-foot-3 and 265 pounds, he possesses really nice mass albeit with limited length. He’s also not an upper-class athlete for the positions but could work into the Day 2 draft mix at this rate.) (10-3-19): https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl-draft-massive-game-for-qb-jordan-love-highlights-our-prospects-to-watch-this-week-170226018.html
NFL DRAFT PROSPECT SHOWDOWN: WEEK 6 (Opposite Zuniga is EDGE Jonathan Greenard, a transfer from Louisville who came to Florida in part because of his familiarity with defensive coordinator Todd Grantham’s scheme. Greenard is a bit thicker than Zuniga at 6-foot-3 and 263-pounds, but the extra weight hasn’t slowed him down from getting to the quarterback. Greenard plays with great strength and a mean streak at the point of attack, giving him an advantage over offensive tackles who don’t properly beat him on first contact. Greenard has recorded four sacks through five games this season, recording at least a half-sack in every game aside from the UT-Martin game where he hardly played. Advantage: Florida EDGEs) (10-2-19): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/prospect-vs-prospect/nfl-draft-prospect-showdown-week-6
September 2019 College Players of the Month (Honorable Mentions - ED Jonathan Greenard, Florida — 92.3 grade: If it wasn’t for Young’s other-worldly production, Greenard would be the nation’s highest-graded defender. The Louisville transfer has made himself at home in Gainesville, producing at least two quarterback pressures in every game and at least five pressures in three of the Gators' five games.) (10-2-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-september-2019-college-players-of-the-month
College Football Week 4: Eckrich SEC Team of the Week (JONATHAN GREENARD, FLORIDA: This was one of the most dominant performances of the weekend, with Greenard dominating the Tennessee offensive line. From 30 pass-rushing snaps, he racked up five hurries and added three batted passes, while two of his three tackles resulted in a defensive stop.) (9-23-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-college-football-week-4-eckrich-sec-team-of-the-week
PFF Rankings: Highest-graded seniors in college football through Week 3 (ED JONATHAN GREENARD – FLORIDA – 87.9 GRADE: Another graduate transfer, Greenard has definitely caught the eyes of scouts this year, beginning with his opening night domination of Miami. For the season, he now has 12 total QB pressures, including four sacks and nine stops. He’s on pace to almost double his previous career-high in all of our pass-rush metrics.) (9-19-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-pff-rankings-highest-graded-seniors-in-college-football-through-week-3
2020 NFL Draft: How prospects fared coming back from 2018 injuries (JONATHAN GREENARD (WRIST): We’ve hit Greenard’s dominant performance over Miami a handful of times already, but what we haven’t explored is the type of player he was back at Louisville where he started for two years. That season, he was used a good deal as an interior rusher as well with over 100 of his 571 snaps coming between the tackles. His quickness looks to have improved since then as he struggled to sell his inside counter effectively that season. It’s obviously only one game against a pretty rough tackle, but Greenard has made the proverbial ‘leap’.) (9-5-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-2020-nfl-draft-how-prospects-fared-coming-back-from-2018-injuries
PFF Rankings: Highest-graded defensive linemen in college football through Week 2 (JONATHAN GREENARD, FLORIDA – 89.1 GRADE: Greenard and Zuniga have formed the nation’s best edge duo thus far. Coming off his dominating performance against Miami’s young offensive line in Week 0, Greenard only saw 20 snaps in Week 2 but still got to the quarterback. Through two games, he now has 10 total QB pressures and four stops. His 30.2 pass-rush win percentage is sixth among all defensive linemen.) (9-11-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-pff-rankings-highest-graded-defensive-linemen-in-college-football-through-week-2
College Football Rankings: Highest-graded defensive linemen through Week 1 (Jonathan Greenard and Jabari Zuniga – Florida: Needless to say, the Florida edge defenders thoroughly enjoyed seeing the youthful Miami offensive line a week ago. The two combined for 15 total pressures (eight by Greenard and seven by Zuniga), including five sacks, as well as eight stops. If not for their three missed tackles, these two may have been Week 1's highest-graded defenders in all of college football.) (9-4-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-rankings-highest-graded-defensive-linemen-through-week-1
2020 NFL Draft: Five breakout candidates coming off strong starts to the 2019 college football season (EDGE JONATHAN GREENARD, FLORIDA: It’s difficult to dominate more than Greenard did in Florida’s win over Miami. He earned an 81.5 run-defense grade and 90.7 pass-rushing grade on 69 snaps. It was a far cry from the player we saw only rack up 27 pressures on 257 pass-rushes at Louisville in 2017. Greenard may not be the freaky athlete that teammate Jabari Zuniga is, but he’s the type of pass-rusher that has an answer for everything. His moves don’t look pre-planned, but rather he reacts to what the tackle throws at him.) (9-4-19): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-five-breakout-candidates-coming-off-strong-starts-to-the-2019-college-football-season
College Football Week 1: 2020 NFL Draft PFF Scouting Notes (HELLO JONATHAN GREENARD: Every year a prospect comes out of seemingly nowhere to become a first-rounder. This year’s edition could very well be the Florida edge defender. After a wrist injury cost him his 2018 season at Louisville, Greenard transferred to Gainsville and is already making a name for himself. He racked up three sacks, five hurries and earned a 91.4 overall grade in their Week 0 matchup against Miami. The Hurricanes' offensive tackles weren’t exactly world-beaters, but he clowned them all game long. He showed exceptional hands and won in a myriad of ways. What I love is that he did it down after down, playing 69 of a possible 71 snaps in the game.) (9-3-19): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-college-football-week-1-2020-nfl-draft-pff-scouting-notes
Week 1 2020 NFL Draft Stock (Up - Jon Greenard, DE, Florida: Florida got a transfer gift in defensive end Jon Greenard. The former Louisville Cardinal had an impressive start to his senior year in his debut for the Gators. In the first quarter, Greenard started a sack for his defense, using his speed to get upfield, a rip move to shed the freshman left tackle, and then closing on the quarterback to ruin the play for Miami. Late in the first half, Greenard drew a critical holding penalty to help push the Hurricanes out of the red zone. Late in the fourth quarter, Greenard showed good hustle running to the flat to get a hard hit and force a fumble from a Hurricanes running back. Aside from those plays, Greenard consistently put pressure on the quarterback and showed an ability to use speed and strength to beat blocks. This was a good tape to start his senior year.) (9-3-19): http://walterfootball.com/draft2020stock_01.php
DE Yetur Gross-Matos:
Scouting Reports:
PSU Profile: https://gopsusports.com/sports/football/roster/yetur-gross-matos/9503
NFL.com: https://www.nfl.com/prospects/yetur-gross-matos?id=32194752-4f61-0423-9bac-e2b343fce23e
Walterfootball: http://walterfootball.com/scoutingreport2020YGrossMatos.php
Draft Network: https://thedraftnetwork.com/player/yetur-gross-matos/sQTJDs3Xh3
Yahoo Sports' top 2020 NFL draft prospects, No. 33: Penn State EDGE Yetur Gross-Matos: https://sports.yahoo.com/yahoo-sports-top-2020-nfl-draft-prospects-no-33-penn-state-edge-yetur-gross-matos-132346391.html
Articles:
Meet Yetur Gross-Matos, Penn State's blue-chip EDGE prospect (4-22-20): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2020/04/22/2020-nfl-draft-prospects-yetur-gross-matos-penn-state-interview/
2020 NFL Draft: The top Day 2 and Day 3 budget prospects (NEED: TOOLSY EDGE PROJECT - Early: Edge Yetur Gross-Matos, Penn State, Later: Edge Trevis Gipson, Tulsa. The average arm length for PFF’s top-10-graded edge rushers last season was over 34 inches. Having longer arms isn’t the end all be all, but it certainly makes life easier when trying to control offensive tackles one-on-one. Gross-Matos has that with 34 ⅞-inch arms, and he could find his way into the back end of the first round because of it. We’ll take Gipson and his 33 ⅞-inch arms somewhere early Day 3, though, and we won’t look back. He earned an 89.7 pass-rushing grade on 311 pass-rushing snaps this past season.) (4-21-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-the-class-top-day-2-and-day-3-budget-prospects
Is Jordan worth the Love? Do NOT pass on Simmons! Draft's cleanest prospect? (And finally, here are two safe prospects who should be Round 1 locks - In a draft class that's thin on difference-making edge defenders, Yetur Gross-Matos is an elite pass rusher who prides himself on stopping the run. And the Penn State product is a young man who has already overcome immense tragedy in his life, losing his father and brother in tragic circumstances nine years apart. He recently told me on SiriusXM Radio that he spent a lot of time talking to the Cowboys. Makes sense. I think Seattle would be a fantastic spot, as well.) (4-21-20): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001110256/article/2020-nfl-draft-dont-pass-on-isaiah-simmons-or-derrick-brown
Nittany Lions Yetur Gross-Matos Could Help Lions Ailing Pass Rush (4-12-20): https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/yetur-gross-matos-could-help-detroit-lions-ailing-pass-rush
Brad Kelly Mailbag: Which prospects are overrated, which are the best team fits, and more (Which prospect could fall on draft day? NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah recently released his most current mock draft, and he’s an analyst who is pretty plugged into league sources. The prospect that could fall past his projections would be Penn State defensive lineman Yetur Gross-Matos. Jeremiah projected Gross-Matos to be selected 18th overall by the Miami Dolphins, but his lack of true edge-rushing traits could mean his translation to the pros would be as an inside presence. Gross-Matos weighs just 266 pounds and his upper body strength is cause for concern. His fit at the next level feels like a scheme-specific one which limits the number of teams that could target him in the first round.) (4-10-20): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/brad-kelly-mailbag-which-prospects-are-overrated-which-are-the-best-team-fits-and-more/
O'HARA'S DRAFT PREVIEW: 5 edge rushers that could interest Lions (4. Yetur Gross-Matos, Penn State. (6-5, 266. No Combine workout. Stats: 3 years, broke out last 2 seasons with 35 tackles for loss, 17.5 sacks.): Breakdown: Played defensive end in Penn State's scheme and moved inside in some passing situations. Built to be an edge rusher and produced like one. How he could fit Lions: Like Chaisson and others, he could be under consideration in the second round to add to the Lions' rotation. Versatility adds value.) (4-8-20): https://www.detroitlions.com/news/o-hara-s-draft-preview-5-edge-rushers-that-could-interest-lions-young
2020 NFL Draft: Perfect landing spots for the top 10 edge defenders (7. YETUR GROSS-MATOS — MIAMI DOLPHINS (PFF Big Board Rank: 63): If we think Taylor is being undervalued by the NFL community, Gross-Matos finds himself on the other end of the spectrum. Despite coming in at 63rd on the PFF Big Board, Gross-Matos is penciled into the first round of nearly every mock draft out there. He serves as a classic case of “looking the part” without ever truly using his natural ability to dominate college competition. He did hit a career-high 81.8 pass-rushing grade in 2019 and the tools are certainly there for him to be a high-level starter in the NFL, but many times on his tape, it looked like he was simply running through pass-rushing moves without a real purpose rather than reacting to the offensive lineman. If the Dolphins don’t package picks to move up, they have two selections (18 and 26) in the range that Gross-Matos figures to come off the board, and it’s a fit that makes sense for both sides. Miami would get a raw prospect with upside to add to the shots they have taken on players like Kyle Van Noy, Shaq Lawson and Emmanuel Ogbah this offseason, and Gross-Matos could enter into a rotational role as the Dolphins work to develop the flashes of potential into more consistent stretches of play.) (4-8-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-perfect-landing-spots-for-the-top-10-edge-defenders
Touchdown Wire's 2020 NFL Draft rankings: Top 25 defensive players (17. Yetur Gross-Matos, EDGE, Penn State: NFL teams looking for a versatile pass rusher who can move inside and disrupt as he can outside might want to consider Gross-Matos in the second half of the first round, or certainly in the second round. Last season, he lined up 98 times inside the tackles and 462 times outside. He racked up a career-high nine sacks, five quarterback hits and 22 quarterback hurries. Gross-Matos will have a bit of technique work to do at the next level, but he also has the potential to bring a lot of power as a strong-side edge defender and movable chess piece.) (4-3-20): https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/2020/04/03/touchdown-wires-2020-nfl-draft-rankings-top-25-defensive-players/
Prospect-pro comparisons for the top five pass rushers in the 2020 draft (3. Yetur Gross-Matos, Penn State (Pro comparison: Aaron Kampman (58 career sacks, 483 tackles, 66 tackles for loss in 10 seasons, 2002-2011).): Gross-Matos is a very good bender with an exceedingly quick get-off. He has a long history of making sacks, going back to his senior year of high school, when he racked up 18.5, and running through his college career, in which he collected 19 sacks and 37 tackles for loss. He reminds me of Kampman, a former fifth-round pick who surprised a lot of people with his pass-rushing ability during a career with the Packers and Jaguars that included a three-year stretch in which he had 37 sacks.) (4-2-20): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001108198/article/2020-nfl-draft-prospectpro-comparisons-for-top-pass-rushers
2020 Draft: 5 groups of edge rushers (The arrow is pointing up for Gross-Matos. Although his elementary statistics dipped from 2018 to 2019, his one-on-one wins were more frequent during his final season at Penn State. At 6-5 and 266 pounds with telephone poles for arms, he's a defensive end prototype from a physical perspective. While not a molasses-slow athlete, Gross-Matos wins more frequently with power or an inside counter than pure speed/bend around the corner.) (3-30-20): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-draft-examining-chase-young-klavon-chaisson-and-rest-of-the-edge-rusher-class-by-type/
2020 NFL Draft: Four overrated and underrated draft prospects (Overrated: Penn State EDGE, Yetur Gross-Matos: This one might be the most controversial one on the list. Gross-Matos is an uber-athletic, high upside prospect that gets a ton of love for his upside. However, my issue with him is that he is quite literally all upside. At his best, Gross-Matos is a run defender who does a great job of setting the edge. That is what he can do from day one for a team. However, he is going to a very steep learning curve to offer pass rush presence when he is not schemed open. His hand usage is a mess in the pass rush. It is not that his hands are not active, because they are, he just seems to not go in with any plan of how to win. Even then, he has a minuscule repertoire of counters that causes him to be locked up far too often. His motor does not run all that hot, and he did not take a big step from his sophomore to his junior year. Progression is not always linear, but that does concern me. The first-round hype he gets is too rich for me. His upside is there, but I would not touch Gross-Matos until the second round.) (3-28-20): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/overrated-underrated-2020-nfl-draft-prospects/
6 Lions 2nd-round options if they draft CB Jeff Okudah in the 1st (Yetur Gross-Matos, EDGE, Penn State: If you’re a Lions fan who misses Ezekiel Ansah, Gross-Matos is going to be a player you will like. Much like Ansah, Gross-Matos is a long-limbed, naturally powerful pass rusher who continues to add to his arsenal the more he plays. He ironed out a lot of the growing pains in 2019, showing more explosive burst and a broader development of countermoves to shed blocks. Gross-Matos is more hit-and-miss in his pass rush and his recognition in run defense right now, which is why a guy who often looks like a surefire top-20 pick would be available in the second round. His upside is peak 2015 Ansah, when “Ziggy” bagged 14.5 sacks and earned a Pro Bowl berth.) (3-26-20): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/03/26/6-lions-2nd-round-options-if-they-draft-cb-jeff-okudah-in-the-1st/
2020 NFL Draft Stock - Post-Combine II (Down - Yetur Gross-Matos, DE, Penn State: Similar to Epenesa, Gross-Matos also didn't wow team sources. He did not run the 40-yard dash and was not impressive in the field drills. Not running the 40-yard dash seems like a missed opportunity and puts more pressure on Gross-Matos to produce a good time at his pro day.) (3-10-20): https://walterfootball.com/draft2020stock_26.php
2020 NFL Draft: Prospects PFF doesn't like as much as other scouts and media (EDGE YETUR GROSS-MATOS, PENN STATE: While Yetur Gross-Matos did improve from 2018 to 2019, he didn't quite improve enough to be considered a top-five edge prospect, or even one worth taking within the first two rounds. After posting an underwhelming pressure rate that ranked 187th in 2018, Gross-Matos improved only to 85th this past year. He drastically improved on his pass-rush win rate, but even that wasn't good enough to crack the top 30, and that's not quite the production you want from a prospect who is getting first-round hype by some, even if he does have the tools of an NFL pass-rusher. Everyone wanted the 6-foot-5, 266-pound edge defender with nearly 35-inch arms to develop into that elite talent, but it just never happened. ) (3-5-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-prospects-pff-doesnt-like-as-much-as-other-scouts-and-media
TWENTYMAN: 7 pass rushers not named Chase Young that could interest Lions (2. Yetur Gross-Matos, Penn State – The technician: Height/weight: 6-5, 266. 2019 stats: 40 tackles, 14.5 tackles for loss, 9.0 sacks. Combine results: 40: DNP, Bench: 20, Vertical: 34.0, Broad: 120.0, 3 Cone: DNP. Scouting report: Gross-Matos is a bit of a polarizing prospect, but he flashes traits that remind me of a young Jason Pierre-Paul. He's long, rangy and athletic with active hands and a high-revving motor. – Bucky Brooks, NFL.com. Draft projection: Mid to late first round. What Gross-Matos says about his game: "I've been compared to a lot of people but I don't really compare myself to anybody else. My coach in college used to always tell me my work ethic was something of its own." Twentyman: March 17 will be an important date for Gross-Matos. That's Penn State's Pro Day. That's when teams will match the athletic traits with the film and production. He's got a good repertoire of pass-rushing moves and good bend off the edge.) (3-4-20): https://www.detroitlions.com/news/twentyman-7-pass-rushers-not-named-chase-young-that-could-interest-the-lions
Jordan Love's comp; Okudah's inspiration; Mayfield on CeeDee and more (A B1G debate. Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa saw plenty of Wirfs on the practice field. Wirfs said those battles were "100 percent helpful" for both. Speaking of Epenesa, I reported during the combine that I spoke with a defensive coordinator who likes both Epenesa and Penn State DE Yetur (rhymes with "detour") Gross-Matos. That DC said he "probably" prefers Gross-Matos because he has a higher ceiling. The next day, I ran into another highly thought of defensive coordinator who told me he, too, likes both players. But he said he "probably" prefers Epenesa. To each his own. That's the beauty of the draft. Gross-Matos has a compelling personal story that I talked about during the Combine and wrote about here.)(3-2-20): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001104990/article/jordan-loves-comp-okudahs-inspiration-mayfield-on-ceedee
2020 NFL Scouting Combine Team Thoughts on Workouts (Penn State defensive end Yetur Gross-Matos also didn't wow team sources. He did not run the 40-yard dash and was not impressive in the field drills. Not running the 40-yard dash seems like a missed opportunity and puts more pressure on Gross-Matos to produce a good time at his pro day.) (3-2-20): https://walterfootball.com/combine2020blog.php
Gross-Matos a Top-15 pick? One prospect who could go much higher than most realize (2-27-20): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001103641/article/isaiah-simmons-unreal-potential-jerry-jeudy-vs-ceedee-lamb
Combine weigh-in: Epenesa, Davidson win (Winners - Yetur Gross-Matos, Penn State. At 6-5 and 266, the Penn State star looks like a traditional defensive end. Add in his nearly 35-inch arms, and you have a towering presence on the outside.) (2-26-20): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-combine-2020-results-a-j-epenesa-marlon-davidson-winners-as-edge-rushers-and-defensive-linemen-weigh-in/
Lions 2020 Combine Preview: EDGE Rusher (Lions 2020 Combine Preview: EDGE Rusher (Yetur Gross-Matos, Penn State: Gross-Matos has the looks of a prototypical 4-3 defensive end. Still needs a little polish, he has a great initial burst and flexibility for a big man -- probably his best traits. Based on his size/flexibility combo, he is likely a late first-round pick. The one aspect of his game the Lions probably won't like is his hand usage. It is something that can be coached up, though. Controlling the line of scrimmage with hand technique is super important in Patricia's scheme. Needless to say, Gross-Matos has a very high ceiling if he can put it all together.) (2-24-20): https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/detroit-lions-2020-nfl-combine-preview-edge-rusher
NFL Hot Press: Yatur Gross-Matos Hazing (2-18-20): http://walterfootball.com/nflhotpress/article/Teams-Don't-Think-Hazing-Lawsuit-Will-Hurt-Gross-Matos
Detroit Lions 2020 NFL Combine preview: Defensive line (Yetur Gross-Matos, edge, Penn State: A couple of steps below Young, Gross-Matos is probably the second-best pass-rushing edge defender in this class, with a solid frame, long limbs (which also help defend the run) and good flexibility to bend around offensive tackles. It's not likely he makes it to Day 2 of the draft, while a solid combine could push him up to the middle of the first round.) (2-17-20): https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/02/17/detroit-lions-2020-nfl-combine-preview-defensive-line/4759485002/
PSU's Gross-Matos aims to fulfill brother's dream (2-17-20): http://www.nfl.com/labs/cfb247/gross-matos/gross-matos
2020 NFL Draft edge rusher rankings: Chase Young in a class by himself, but there could be many early picks (Yetur Gross-Matos, Penn State: Gross-Matos is a long, fast player with fantastic sack production over the past two seasons. He is probably best-served as a 4-3 rush defensive end at the next level. There will likely be plenty of suitors for his talents in the first round. The Virginia native has adopted a solid counter move and works tirelessly.) (2-17-20): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-draft-edge-rusher-rankings-chase-young-in-a-class-by-himself-but-there-could-be-many-early-picks/
2020 NFL Draft: Edge rusher rankings, top prospects (4. Yetur Gross-Matos, Penn State (JR, 6'5", 264 pounds): Over the past two seasons combined, Gross-Matos has a total of 34.5 tackles for loss and 17 sacks. Gross-Matos has tremendous length, violent hands, a non-stop motor and quick first step. While he has the versatility to fit in both 4-3 and 3-4 schemes, he's best suited for a 4-3 end role at the next level.) (2-17-20): https://www.si.com/nfl/2020/02/17/nfl-draft-2020-edge-rushers-rankings-best-prospects
Tony Pauline Mailbag: Are the Dallas Cowboys planning “a big splash” in the NFL Draft? (Who is your second-ranked pass rusher in the draft, and what’s the gap between him and Chase Young? It falls off a cliff after Young. If you’re asking about a pure edge rusher, it would be Penn State’s Yetur Gross-Matos. If it’s a defensive end who can also rush the passer, then it would be Iowa’s A.J. Epenesa.) (2-12-20): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/pauline-mailbag-dallas-cowboys-planning-big-splash-nfl-draft/
2020 NFL Combine: Defensive End, Edge Rusher Prospects, Invites, What To Watch For (4. Yetur Gross-Matos, Penn State 6-5, 264 (1) - Why He’s Here On The List: When he was on, he was one of college football’s most dominant defensive forces with 9.5 sacks and 15 tackles for loss last year after coming up with eight sacks and 20 tackles for loss as a sophomore. He’s an end more than outside linebacker or a hybrid, with a killer combination of skills, closing ability, and size. He’s what NFL teams are looking for in a 4-3 end. What The NFL Types Want To See: Does he have the fluidity and the twitch to go along with his size? He’s going to be bigger than most of the pass rushers at the combine, but if he can be the “moves like a smaller player” guy, he goes from the late first rounder into the top 15. Bottom Line: He’s an end more than a hybrid outside linebacker type, and he’s just getting started. He could end up playing at around 270 pounds and become a devastating force if he could be a bit stronger against the run to go along with his pass rushing upside. He’s already great, but there’s still a high ceiling on what he can become.) (2-11-20): https://collegefootballnews.com/2020/02/2020-nfl-combine-defensive-end-edge-rusher-prospects-invites-what-to-watch-for
Buyer beware on these 2020 NFL Draft prospects (EDGE YETUR GROSS-MATOS, PENN STATE (Buyer beware of: Lack of dominance): Saying a prospect ‘looks the part’ isn’t necessarily a pro or a con, but there’s no denying Gross-Matos ‘looks the part’ at 6-foot-5, 259 pounds. For someone with a near-ideal build to rush the passer in the NFL, though, it’s curious why he never did so at a high-level in college. On 1,442 snaps over three years at Penn State, Gross-Matos’ single highest pass-rushing game grade was an 80.1 as a freshman against Georgia State. His next highest was a 78.7 against Idaho in Week 1 of this past season. It’s not as if Gross-Matos was run-reading every snap the way A.J. Epenesa often did at Iowa. The Penn State scheme affords it’s defensive linemen considerable freedom to attack the passer, and Gross-Matos still never took over.) (2-7-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-buyer-beware-10-2020-nfl-draft-prospects
2020 NFL Draft Position Rankings: Edge Defenders (7. YETUR GROSS-MATOS, PENN STATE (Draft Board Rank: 47th): Gross-Matos was one of the most consistent edge defenders in the country this past season, with eight of his 12 games earning a pass-rushing grade of 70.0 or higher. None topped the 78.7 mark, however, as Gross-Matos didn't have many dominant outings. He's got some serious pop in his hands and an ideal NFL build. However, the true junior is still nailing down the finer points of rushing the passer. It often looks as if he's decided what move he's going to do before the snap and struggles to play off the opposing offensive tackle. His bull-rush wasn't nearly as deadly as you'd think it would be with his power and length. It's encouraging that he took a big step forward from a 67.7 pass-rushing grade in 2018 to 81.8 this past season, but he's still got a ways to go.) (2-3-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-position-rankings-edge-defenders
Post 2020 Senior Bowl Notebook (On personal rankings, I’m higher than most draft media on these players: Penn State EDGE Yetur Gross-Matos. I see Emmanuel Ogbah with a slightly better first step. That’s not a top 50-worthy player.) (1-29-20): https://football.realgm.com/analysis/3246/Post-2020-Senior-Bowl-Notebook
2020 NFL Draft: Titans team needs, draft picks, prospects to watch for Tennessee (Yetur Gross-Matos, EDGE, Penn State: If the Titans want to go edge rusher in Round 1, Gross-Matos could be available when they pick, and he has the size, length, and athleticism to be an ideal bookend to Harold Landry. The Penn State star improved in each of his three years with the Nittany Lions and will instantly boost Tennessee's run-stopping efforts. His pass-move arsenal has clearly developed too.) (1-21-20): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-draft-titans-team-needs-draft-picks-prospects-to-watch-for-tennessee/
Evaluating declaration decisions (EDGE Yetur Gross-Matos (Penn State): Gross-Matos is a long, fast player. He can improve his strength but he shows great discipline to break down his footwork and make tackles in the open field. His hand usage allows him to counter a lineman's initial punch. His ability around the edge will intrigue teams in the first round. NFL Draft projection: Top 25-50 pick) (1-9-20): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-draft-2020-sizing-up-early-declaration-decisions-of-tua-fromm-eason-and-more-key-prospects/
2020 NFL mock draft: Full 7 rounds of Lions picks (Second Round Pick 35 - The pick: Yetur Gross-Matos, EDGE, Penn State. There are times when the 6-5, 265-pounder looks dominant attacking the edge and also busting inside. He finishes very well and can win with power or quickness. Gross-Matos just needs to do it more consistently, which is why he’s not a consensus first-round talent.) (1-8-20): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/01/02/2020-nfl-mock-draft-full-7-rounds-of-lions-picks/
OnePride 2020 Lions' Fan Mock Draft 1.0 (Round 2, Pick 35: Yetur Gross-Matos, DE, PSU: Gross-Matos was Jeff Risdon’s pick for the Lions in the second round of his first 2020 mock draft for the Lions saying, “There are times when the 6-5, 265-pounder looks dominant attacking the edge and also busting inside. He finishes very well and can win with power or quickness. Gross-Matos just needs to do it more consistently, which is why he’s not a consensus first-round talent.” Erik’s take: Adding an EDGE rusher should be a priority in this class, but I would have also given a lot of consideration to Kenneth Murray, ILB Oklahoma — there are only so many linebackers who fit what the Lions want.) (1-6-20): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/01/06/onepride-2020-lions-fan-mock-draft-1-0/
2020 NFL mock draft: Full 7 rounds of Lions picks (The 2nd round pick: Yetur Gross-Matos, EDGE, Penn State. There are times when the 6-5, 265-pounder looks dominant attacking the edge and also busting inside. He finishes very well and can win with power or quickness. Gross-Matos just needs to do it more consistently, which is why he’s not a consensus first-round talent.) (1-2-20): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/01/02/2020-nfl-mock-draft-full-7-rounds-of-lions-picks/
Draft prospects for Lions fans to watch in college football selection committee, playoff games (Penn State DE Yetur Gross-Matos -- Yetur Gross-Matos would likely have to slip into the first couple of second-round picks to make sense for the Lions. The 6-foot-5, 264-pound defensive end has 8.5 sacks and 13.5 tackles for loss in 10 games this season. Mel Kiper has Gross-Matos as his No. 3 defensive end while his counterpart Todd McShay has him going at No. 32 in his first mock draft. The junior has already declared for the draft, but will play in the Cotton Bowl. “Gross-Matos has elite physical tools and has seen a massive jump in his pass-rushing grade from 67.7 last year to 82.8 this season,” PFF writes of the defensive end.) (12-27-19): https://www.mlive.com/lions/2019/12/draft-prospects-for-lions-fans-to-watch-in-college-football-selection-committee-playoff-games.html
NFL draft: 2020 draft prospects to watch from every college bowl game (Penn State EDGE Yetur Gross-Matos — The 6-5, 259-pound edge rusher is entering his final game with the Nittany Lions, and his length and pass-rush juice absolutely have the attention of NFL teams. But one club we spoke with recently raised a very real concern with Gross-Matos’ edge-setting ability against the run. It’s probably his biggest question as a prospect, and it’s likely one that will be tested in this game. Memphis operates a run-heavy spread attack that mixes in old-school power plays. They use multiple backs and tight ends and can gash teams that are not disciplined against the run. NFL teams will want to watch Gross-Matos show some awareness and restraint against this type of team before stamping a first-round grade on him.) (12-27-19): https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl-draft-2020-draft-prospects-to-watch-from-every-college-bowl-game-175124452.html
Tony Pauline Mailbag: NFL Draft news on Andrew Thomas, AJ Epenesa and more (Which EDGE player has the most to gain during the draft process: Penn State’s Yetur Gross-Matos or Iowa’s AJ Epenesa? They both have a lot to gain, assuming Epenesa declares for the 2020 NFL Draft. I can’t put one over the other. Gross-Matos needs to show he can add weight to his frame and has the body to hold up at the next level. With Epenesa, things such as shuttle and three-cone times are important as teams are wondering if he’s a true edge rusher. Remember that terrible shuttle and three-cone times are part of the reason why Jaylon Ferguson slipped into the third round despite the fact that the field during his Pro Day was slick as grease.) (12-27-19): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/tony-pauline-mailbag-week-17-nfl-draft-news-andrew-thomas-aj-epenesa-and-more/
Prospects to watch in Cotton Bowl (Penn State - Yetur Gross-Matos, EDGE: Gross-Matos is a monstrous specimen on the edge at 6-4 and around 265 pounds with a frame that looks like it could carry another 10 or 15 pounds comfortably. His long arms work wonders for him around the corner and after a highly productive 2018 -- 20 tackles for loss, eight sacks -- YGM actually improved his draft stock despite lower tackle-for-loss numbers this season because his pass-rushing moves developed and he showed awesome bend around the edge. He's bound for the first round. ) (12-23-19): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/cotton-bowl-time-tv-channel-2020-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-in-memphis-vs-penn-state/
2020 Draft: Who's boosted stock most? (Yetur Gross-Matos, EDGE, Penn State: As a sophomore, Gross-Matos earned the distinction of somewhat raw physical freak. At 6-foot-5 and over 260 pounds, the 20-year-old edge rusher had eight sacks and 20 tackles for loss. He wasn't consistently winning at the point of attack as a pass rusher though. As a junior, Gross-Matos' traditional numbers didn't improve -- eight sacks and 13.5 tackles for loss in 10 games -- but, importantly, he demonstrated a clear step forward using his hands against pass protectors while maintaining his sturdiness against the run. In 2018, YGM looked like a specimen who mainly relied on his athletic superiority to win. This year, he's used finesse to beat blockers, and he's certainly not any less impressive physically as a 21-year-old. For someone who'll turn 22 in February, YGM earned the label of someone with an arrow pointing up at a premier position. He needed to polish his game quite a bit even after his breakout sophomore campaign, and he did. YGM is probably going to crush his combine workout too, so he'll (likely) check important boxes during the pre-draft process. And his improvement as a junior has probably locked him into Round 1.) (12-5-19): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-draft-joe-burrow-yetur-gross-matos-and-the-prospects-whove-boosted-their-stock-most-in-2019/
Penn State EDGE Yetur Gross-Matos declares for 2020 NFL draft (12-3-19): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2019/12/03/2020-nfl-draft-yetur-gross-matos-penn-state-declares/
Yetur Gross-Matos, Tariq Castro-Fields to Miss Rutgers Game With injuries (11-30-19): https://www.roarlionsroar.com/penn-state-football/2019/11/6423/yetur-gross-matos-tariq-castro-fields-injury-rutgers
Six From Saturday: Justin Herbert’s Flaws on Display in Loss to Arizona State (6. Penn State DE Yetur Gross-Matos took another step towards the upper reaches of the first round by being an issue for Ohio State’s high-flying offense on Saturday. Scouts still want to see the 6' 5", 265-pounder put on some weight and get a little more consistent against the run, but his frame and athleticism have added to real production as a pass-rusher.) (11-26-19): https://www.si.com/nfl/2019/11/26/justin-herbert-joe-burrow-2020-nfl-draft-six-from-saturday
NFL draft winners and losers: 2 big-name QB prospects struggle out West (Winners - Penn State EDGE Yetur Gross-Matos
His performance was overshadowed by Young’s dominance, but Gross-Matos has strung some nice games together to help steady his draft stock and make it a more tantalizing decision on whether he declares or returns to school. He made nine tackles in the game, two sacks for minus-15 yards and another 1.5 tackles for loss. Gross-Matos’ production sagged a bit midseason, but he now has eight sacks on the season as the gifted physical traits are starting to add up into the statistics. Plus, he’s good for a handful of pressures in each game that don’t show up in the box score. We’re still ambivalent about Gross-Matos as a prospect in some respects, but — should he come out — with a little bit of a drop-off in the edge-rushing department in this class after the top few prospects, he could find himself in good shape with a strong pre-draft process. Right now, he has a decent chance to go in the top 40 or so picks, but the higher end of Round 1 feels like a reach.) (11-25-19): https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl-draft-winners-and-losers-two-bigname-qb-prospects-struggle-out-west-193511714.html
The matchups to decide Penn State-Minnesota in Week 11's battle of undefeated teams (Penn State is fortunate enough to have three edge defenders in the top-50 in win rate, the best being Gross-Matos at 21.4% which is ranked 17th in the nation. Although his pressure percentage hasn't been as high as it was a year ago, he has still been able to sack opposing quarterbacks seven times and lay another four QB hits. He may be in for a big day against the Minnesota offensive line that has allowed pressure on 32.2% of their snaps in pass protection.) (11-8-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-matchups-to-decide-penn-state-minnesota-in-week-11s-battle-of-undefeated-teams
NFL DRAFT PROSPECT SHOWDOWN: WEEK 8 (Michigan OT Jon Runyan vs Penn State EDGE Yetur Gross-Matos: With just a week in between appearances, Michigan OT Jon Runyan is back in the spotlight with another high-end matchup. Runyan will face off against Penn State EDGE Yetur Gross-Matos, who is among the most productive pass rushers in the Power 5 this season. Gross-Matos is not quite as daunting a matchup as Iowa’s A.J. Epenesa was from the last time Runyan was featured here, but the Penn State pass-rusher is a pro, no doubt. Let’s start with a refresher on Runyan. A 6-foot-5 and 321-pound tackle with stubby arms, Runyan may project better to guard in the NFL. He plays with low pad level, ample anchor and strength, and should be able to mitigate his short arm length when playing inside as opposed to as a bookend. At the left tackle spot Runyan currently occupies, he does well to get out of his stance and play in front of his opponent. Runyan just does not have the length or natural sense of how to initiate contact that would allow him to be a proactive pass blocker. Runyan is instead reactive, which can leave him exposed to pass-rush moves and bullrushes despite his raw strength. On multiple occasions versus Epenesa, Runyan left his chest open and was driven back into the pocket. Again, some struggles are to be expected given his short arms, but short-armed tackles have proven before that they can be active and forceful enough to overcome. Runyan is neither, and it shows here. Epenesa has a clear length advantage and has no problem earning inside hand positioning, giving him free reign to move Runyan wherever and however he pleases. Epenesa had just one sack in four games prior to facing Michigan, but finished the game with his second sack of the season and a handful of pressures. Gross-Matos is not quite the hulk Epenesa is, but he has plenty of length and strength to replicate Epenesa’s success, in addition to throwing out a few other tricks he has under his sleeve. While Epenesa is more of a head-up or inside rusher, Gross-Matos is an impeccable athlete who can threaten the edge with his first step and finish the job with impressive flexibility around the arc. This rip-and-dip is a staple for the Penn State pass-rusher. On both occasions, Gross-Matos attacks the left tackle with a slight favor toward their outside shoulder while mostly remaining head-up. Gross-Matos then punches into their chests and immediately pulls them down and into his body, using the pull as a sort of slingshot to send himself to the quarterback. It’s a fairly simple move in principle, but to get the right blend of timing, power, and dip around the outside shoulder is tough. One aspect of Gross-Matos’ game Runyan may have no bearing over is when he slides to be an inside pass-rusher. On some passing downs, Gross-Matos will kick inside to a 3-tech position (between guard and tackle) and attack the guard. That Gross-Matos can show the positional versatility to slide inside as a sub-rusher while also having the speed and flexibility to threaten the edge from a standard alignment makes him an enticing chess piece for creative defensive minds. The left guard had no chance. Gross-Matos flies off the ball here and instantly closes the gap. With the gap close in a head-up approach, Gross-Matos has a two-way go. He chooses to cut to his left, swiping down the guard’s hands in sync with his side step. Of course, Gross-Matos is too small to play out of this alignment all the time, but it’s a nice bonus to an already excellent skill set. Once again, Runyan finds himself on the losing end of a matchup against another prospect. Gross-Matos is bordering on first-round consideration, whereas Runyan is more of a Day 3 guy. Not only are the two separated in talent, but Gross-Matos athleticism and use of length pose a particularly bad matchup for Runyan. Hopefully Runyan can survive enough to not get QB Shea Patterson crushed. Advantage: Gross-Matos) (10-16-19): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/prospect-vs-prospect/nfl-draft-prospect-showdown-week-8
2020 NFL draft: 5 prospect matchups to watch in Week 7 (Penn State EDGE Yetur Gross-Matos vs. Iowa’s offensive tackles - Yetur Gross-Matos broke out as one of the best edge rushers in the nation last year, and he has solidified that status with his play in 2019. Through four games, Gross-Matos has tallied five sacks and seven tackles, serving as an anchor for Penn State’s defense. His 6-foot-5 frame, impressive athleticism and relentless motor have established him as a potential first-round pick in the 2020 draft. This week, Gross-Matos faces the daunting task of going up against Iowa offensive tackles Tristan Wirfs and Alaric Jackson. Both players are seen as likely draft picks, with the former consistently placed among the top tackles in the class. Wirfs is a nimble yet menacing blocker with great functional strength and impressive athleticism, while Jackson is a 6-foot-7 behemoth with good grip strength. Gross-Matos has wreaked havoc against opposing offensive tackles thus far, but Wirfs and Jackson are the toughest battles he’s faced to this point. It will be intriguing to see both sides battle it out on Saturday.) (10-11-19): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2019/10/11/2020-nfl-draft-5-prospect-matchups-to-watch-in-week-7/
Five possible Detroit Lions 2020 draft prospects: Week 3 (Yetur Gross-Matos, EDGE, Penn State (No. 99): Following an offseason suspension for violating team rules, Gross-Matos is back to doing what he does best, making plays in the backfield. One year after racking up 20 tackles behind the line of scrimmage, he's already netted 3.0 sacks on this young season. A high-motor defender, Gross-Matos has long limbs and uses them to his advantage in his pass rush. Listed at 242 pounds, he'll need to add some weight and strength to effectively handle edge responsibilities at the next level. ) (9-13-19): https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/09/13/five-possible-detroit-lions-2020-draft-prospects-week-3/2302979001/
NFL draft winners and losers: Jacob Eason, other quarterbacks with new teams shine (winners - Penn State EDGE Yetur Gross-Matos: It was a game against Idaho, sure, but Gross-Matos registered a career-best 2.5 sacks — and did so in about one half’s worth of work when many starters were pulled early in the 79-7 blowout. The Vandals’ offensive line had no answers for blocking him on most plays, as Gross-Matos helped put them behind the chains early and often. “Yetur Gross-Matos played really well,” Nittany Lions head coach James Franklin said immediately after the game, without first needing to see the tape. It was a nice debut after the talented pass rusher was suspended for a violation of team rules over the summer. Scouts are intrigued with his upside. The EDGE class looks loaded next year. Gross-Matos has another year of eligibility remaining after this one, but don’t be shocked to see him declare for the draft if he puts up another big season after his breakout (20 TFLs) in 2018. Seeing him line up inside and out and use his excellent hand technique to toss aside blockers has us excited for what’s to come.) (9-2-19): https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl-draft-winners-and-losers-jacob-eason-other-quarterbacks-with-new-teams-shine-164717433.html
Penn State Nittany Lions: Yetur Gross-Matos projected to be a first rounder (Yetur Gross-Matos: Yetur Gross-Matos is a terrific athlete who translates his natural skills into pass-rush ability. He flies off the edge, displays tremendous speed and quickness and plays with great fundamentals. Gross-Matos get a lot of momentum going up the field, easily changes direction and makes play in every area of the field. Like a lot of college edge rushers, he needs to get a little bigger and stronger, but I like the upside and growth potential of Gross-Matos.) (8-31-19): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/penn-state-nittany-lions-summer-pauline/
NFL Draft: Big Ten defensive All-Conference preseason predictions (DL – Yetur Gross-Matos, Penn State: The last of the edge rushers. Yetur Gross-Matos (YGM) put together a very productive season last year. He finished just behind Willekes in tackles for loss, and matched his sack total. YGM is currently more project than prospect when speaking to his relevance in the NFL Draft, but that just means he could manage an even more impressive stat line this coming season.) (8-19-19): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/nfl-draft-big-ten-defensive-all-conference-preseason-predictions/
Big Ten Preview of the 2020 NFL Draft: Buckeyes continue to churn out first-round talent post-Urban Meyer (DE Yetur Gross-Matos: The 6-foot-5, 246-pound edge rusher had a breakout year in 2018, collecting eight sacks, 20 tackles for loss and a pair of forced fumbles. An extremely impressive athlete, Gross-Matos' length, agility and explosiveness are exactly what NFL scouts are looking for. He could be a legitimate first-round pick if he improves his consistency and hand usage this fall.) (8-15-19): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/big-ten-preview-of-the-2020-nfl-draft-buckeyes-continue-to-churn-out-first-round-talent-post-urban-meyer/
Penn State DE Yetur Gross-Matos, RB Journey Brown suspended through rest of July (7-20-19): https://collegefootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2019/07/20/penn-state-de-yetur-gross-matos-rb-journey-brown-suspended-through-rest-of-july/amp/
2020 NFL Draft: Chase Young and A.J. Epenesa lead EDGE class (3. Yetur Gross-Matos: Yetur Gross-Matos was rated as a four-star recruit coming out of Chancellor high school, per 247Sports, ESPN, Rivals, and Scout. He is a terrific athlete that lettered in basketball and track in addition to football. Heading into the 2019 season, expectations are sky-high for Gross-Matos. ESPN draft guru Mel Kiper has Gross-Matos ranked 6th overall on his initial 2020 big board. Gross-Matos is the complete EDGE defender as he excels as a pass-rusher and also against the run. In 2018, he accounted for 8 sacks and 20 tackles for a loss. When the dust settles, it would not be surprising to hear Yetur Gross-Matos name called in the first ten selections of the 2020 NFL Draft.) (7-4-19): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2020-nfl-draft-young-epenesa-headline/
How two tragedies shaped top NFL prospect Yetur Gross-Matos (6-14-19): https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/26920182/how-two-tragedies-shaped-top-nfl-prospect-yetur-gross-matos?platform=amp
DE Alex Highsmith:
Scouting Reports:
Charlotte Profile: https://charlotte49ers.com/sports/football/roster/alex-highsmith/6179
NFL.com: https://www.nfl.com/prospects/alex-highsmith?id=32194849-4759-5832-21ce-07274900b330
Draft Network: https://thedraftnetwork.com/player/alex-highsmith/q6qDVlYZMM
Articles:
2020 NFL Draft Superlatives: Edge Defenders (SLEEPER: ALEX HIGHSMITH, CHARLOTTE (Honorable Mention: Trevis Gipson, Tulsa & Derrek Tuszka, North Dakota State): No edge defender has had more run stops in college football over the past two seasons than Highsmith’s 62 (honorable mention Trevis Gipson is second with 56). He’s also improved by leaps and bounds as a pass-rusher since first coming to Charlotte as a walk-on. Highsmith’s 91.4 pass-rushing grade this past season ranked fifth among all edge defenders in college football.) (4-22-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-superlatives-edge-defenders
2020 NFL Draft News and Rumors from Tony Pauline (Keep an eye out for Charlotte’s Alex Highsmith: Alex Highsmith of Charlotte is another edge rusher getting looks from a variety of 3-4 and 4-3 defenses. Most teams grade Highsmith as an early fourth-round prospect, although there is talk he could slide into the late part of Day 2. The senior turned in a solid cCmbine workout, but he did not take part in the bench press due to a strained pectoral muscle. He was recently filmed completing 24 reps on the bench, a tape that was sent to teams around the league. Highsmith is drawing a lot of interest from the New York Jets, Atlanta Falcons, and Pittsburgh Steelers.) (4-21-20): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2020-nfl-draft-news-rumors-tony-pauline/
2020 NFL Draft: Most underrated prospects at every position (EDGE DEFENDER - Alex Highsmith | Charlotte: An afterthought during the high school recruiting process, Highsmith had to walk on at Charlotte to get his chance at college football success. He’s made the most of it for the 49ers, putting up big numbers and proving to be a constant headache for opposing offenses. Highsmith racked up a school-record 17.5 tackles for loss in 2018, then followed it up with 21.5 last season, along with 14 sacks. He had a solid performance at the NFL Scouting Combine, and his nonstop motor should make him a favorite with league decision-makers.) (4-9-20): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2020/04/09/2020-nfl-draft-most-underrated-prospects-jalen-hurts-darrynton-evans-john-hightower/
7 Defensive Linemen Detroit Lions Could Target in NFL Draft (EDGE Alex Highsmith: The redshirt senior defensive end was quite productive during his time at Charlotte. He racked up 14 sacks this past season, to go along with 75 total tackles. He uses a great burst and bend to get around tackles on his way to the quarterback. Being from a smaller school, Highsmith hasn't had nearly as much hype as individuals from Power Five conferences. As of now, most mock drafts have him as a mid-round selection, which would be a great value selection to aid in upgrading the Lions' defense.) (4-6-20): https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/seven-defensive-linemen-lions-could-target-in-2020-nfl-draft
2020 Draft: 5 groups of edge rushers (Highsmith isn't the athlete Tuszka is -- 7.32 three cone -- but he did run a fast 4.70 in the 40 and had a 125-inch broad jump, the latter placing him in the 92nd percentile. At Charlotte, Highsmith really battled his way to an illustrious career. He had only three sacks to go along with 18 tackles for loss in 2018, then his quarterback takedowns skyrocketed to 15 in 2019. While chiseled, Highsmith is a bit stiff around the corner but understands how to work off his speed rush to keep tackles on their toes.) (3-30-20): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-draft-examining-chase-young-klavon-chaisson-and-rest-of-the-edge-rusher-class-by-type/
2020 NFL Draft: Four overrated and underrated draft prospects (Underrated: Charlotte EDGE, Alex Highsmith: Maybe there is something to me loving twitched-up pass rushers that can bend around the edge well, but I love Highsmith’s game. You see him go in the fourth or sometimes even fifth round at this point, but I think he should go in the top-100 of the draft with ease. If Highsmith’s character did not sell you on him, the tape will back up his high character just as much. On every play, you see Highsmith’s motor run extremely hot, Highsmith has a useful toolbox of counters and moves, including a dip-rip and chop-rip combination. The pass rush plan needs to improve, but he has the goods to succeed here. I love how he dips his shoulder to reduce his surface area around the edge. More so, his hips are fluid and allow him to buzz out to the flat if needed. He is a pass rusher that can contribute day one and be an eventual starter in this league.) (3-28-20): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/overrated-underrated-2020-nfl-draft-prospects/
2020 NFL Combine analytical winners/losers: defense (Charlotte’s Alex Highsmith had the highest WAR score of ranked prospects, with his 40 and broad jump registering in the 67th and 90th percentiles, respectively.) (3-3-20): https://www.pff.com/news/news-draft-2020-nfl-combine-analytical-winners-losers-defense
All-Combine Team: Who shined at each position? (Alex Highsmith, Charlotte (Best team fits: Arizona Cardinals, Miami Dolphins, Tampa Bay Buccaneers.): Highsmith is extremely athletic and put that on display Saturday in Indianapolis. His spin move on the five-bag rush-move drill was a work of art, as was his dip on the fourth bag, and his hoop-running performance showed just how smooth he can be around the edge. Highsmith excelled in pass coverage drills too, showing he has a chance to be effective in both areas of the defense off the edge. He wasn't a big name, but combined with his 4.7 40, 10-foot-5 broad jump and 33-inch vertical leap, Highsmith proved he can develop into an effective edge defender if he can add strength at the next level.) ( 3-2-20): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001104947/article/2020-allcombine-team-which-nfl-draft-prospects-owned-indy
Stock report from the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine (Up - Alex Highsmith, Charlotte: Coming out of a small school with only one year of high-level production, Highsmith showcased well-rounded athleticism. Among edge rushers, he posted top-five marks in the 40, short shuttle, three-cone and broad jump.) (3-2-20): https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/03/02/stock-report-2020-nfl-scouting-combine/4927380002/
2020 NFL Combine winners: EDGE rushers (Alex Highsmith, Charlotte
6-3, 248, 10 y/s: 1.68, 3-cone: 7.32, short shuttle: 4.31: Highsmith played everywhere from a 4i-technique to a standing rush edge at Charlotte but looks best suited for a JACK role in the NFL. He had a strong workout on Saturday night, looking fluid in his backpedal and lateral movement, played under control, and showed the ability to throttle speeds as needed. Athletically, he checked every box the Lions are looking for.) (3-1-20): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/03/01/2020-nfl-combine-winners-edge-rushers/
2020 NFL Combine Stock Report: Defensive Linemen (Up - Alex Highsmith, DE/OLB, Charlotte: Alex Highsmith stood out most in the drills. He looked very fluid in most of them, so he definitely helped himself. His solid testing numbers won't hurt either; he had a 1.68 10-yard split to go along with a 7.32 3-cone and a 10-5 broad jump.) (2-29-20): https://walterfootball.com/combine2020stockDL.php
Meet Alex Highsmith, Charlotte's gem of a pass-rushing prospect (2-28-20): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2020/02/28/nfl-draft-2020-prospects-alex-highsmith-charlotte-interview/
Charlotte edge rusher Alex Highsmith still proving people wrong (2-26-20): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/charlotte-edge-rusher-alex-highsmith-prove/
10 sleeper prospects primed to improve their draft stock at the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine (Alex Highsmith, EDGE, Charlotte: Even after finishing third in the nation in sacks (15.0) and second in tackles for loss (21.5) in 2019, Alex Highsmith still isn’t garnering the buzz that someone with his skillset and production warrants. Assuming he weighs in between 242-245 pounds in Indianapolis, evaluators are sure to be intrigued by Highsmith’s scheme versatility as a potential 4-3 defensive end or 3-4 outside linebacker. A tremendous athlete, it wouldn’t surprise me to see Highsmith run between a 4.65-4.7 40-yard dash. I have Highsmith rated as a Top 100 prospect in the 2020 NFL Draft; if he tests like I think he will, however, the ascending talent will continue to soar up draft boards and could hear his name called as early as the third round.) (2-19-20): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2020-nfl-scouting-combine-sleeper-prospects-draft-stock/
2020 NFL Combine: Defensive End, Edge Rusher Prospects, Invites, What To Watch For (16. Alex Highsmith, Charlotte 6-4, 242 (6) - NFL Combine What Matters: Where will he fit? He’s an undersized defensive end who needs to add some bulk, but he was ultra-productive – 14 sacks, 21.5 tackles for loss, 75 tackles – and he needs the tools to match the tape.) (2-11-20): https://collegefootballnews.com/2020/02/2020-nfl-combine-defensive-end-edge-rusher-prospects-invites-what-to-watch-for
2020 NFL Draft: Identifying underrated draft prospects (Alex Highsmith, EDGE, Charlotte: It’s not often that someone who ended the 2019 season ranked third in the nation in sacks (15.0) and second in tackles for loss (21.5) qualifies for the underrated label, but alas, here we are. Alex Highsmith (6-foot-4, 242) wins with violent hands and sound technique off the edge. He is armed with a wide array of pass rush moves and never quits on a play. A Senior Bowl snub, Highsmith instead used his Shrine Bowl opportunity to firmly establish himself as one of the premier pass rushers in the 2020 NFL Draft. It was evident from Day 1 that he was the best player on the field. Whether he is a 4-3 defensive end or ultimately becomes a 3-4 outside linebacker at the next level, Highsmith has the character and intangibles to sustain a long, prosperous pro career. I have Highsmith rated as a Top 100 player in the 2020 NFL Draft, and I fully anticipate his stock to climb throughout the pre-draft process.) (2-6-20): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2020-nfl-draft-identifying-underrated-prospects/
Late-Round Sleeper Who Can Bolster Lions' Defensive Line (1-27-20): https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/alex-highsmith-is-a-late-round-sleeper-who-can-help-detroit-lions
10 Shrine Bowl prospects for Lions fans to watch (Alex Highsmith, EDGE, Charlotte: Highsmith is the safe bet to be the first player from the Shrine Bowl to get drafted in 2020, and it’s possible he could be gone by the time the Lions pick at the top of the third round. He’s got that kind of potential as a slippery pass rusher with speed and bend. Highsmith is really good at using his hands to shed blocks and keep himself clean to make plays in the run game, too.) (1-18-20): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/01/18/10-shrine-bowl-prospects-for-lions-fans-to-watch/
10 Shrine Bowl prospects for Lions fans to watch (Highsmith, Bellamy, Davis, Dotson, Hilbers, Gaziano, Johnson, Onwenu, Walker, Davidson) (1-18-20): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/01/18/10-shrine-bowl-prospects-for-lions-fans-to-watch/
TWENTYMAN: 10 players to watch in East-West Shrine Game (5. Alex Highsmith, DE, Charlotte: He was on the Chuck Bednarik Award (Defensive Player of the Year) watch list before the season and he didn't disappoint. Highsmith (6-4, 242) recorded 14.0 sacks, the third highest in college football this season. He also added 75 tackles and forced a fumble. He's a name NFL fans will become more familiar with in the NFL pre-draft process.) (1-17-20): https://www.detroitlions.com/news/twentyman-10-players-to-watch-in-east-west-shrine-game-x8566
East-West Shrine Game: 7 prospects to watch for Lions (Alex Highsmith, Edge, Charlotte: Highsmith's production exploded during his senior season. After tallying 6.0 sacks his first three years, he dropped opposing passers behind the line 15 times in 2019. With arms a shade longer than 33 inches, he doesn't have ideal length to be a three-down player, but with good burst and hand usage off the edge, he could contribute early as a situational pass rusher.) (1-17-20): https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/01/17/east-west-shrine-game-7-prospects-watch-detroit-lions/4499781002/
Draft: Prospects to watch in Shrine Game (Alex Highsmith, EDGE, Charlotte: Highsmith went into the season with a fair amount of draft hype after 18.5 tackles for loss in 2018. Then, the 6-foot-3, 240-ish pound edge rusher amassed 21.5 tackles for loss and 15 sacks in 2019. He held his own against Clemson early in the year and flashed a nice blend of quickness, power, and hand use around the corner as a senior. There will definitely be Day 3 appeal with Highsmith in April.) (1-16-20): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/east-west-shrine-game-2020-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-include-sleeper-at-running-back/
East-West Shrine Game Practice Report: East Team (Garrett Marino of UAB, James Smith-Williams of NC State, and Alex Highsmith of Charlotte all showed well today.) (Day 3) (1-15-20): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/east-west-shrine-game-practice-report-east-team-day-3/
Live from the East-West Shrine Game: Practice Day Three (11:00 AM ET: WF’s Jake Benzinger has struggled to handle the speed rush of Charlotte’s Alex Highsmith.) (1-15-20): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/live-from-the-east-west-shrine-game-practice-day-three/
NFL draft: 2020 draft prospects to watch from every college bowl game (Charlotte EDGE Alex Highsmith — It might be easy to suggest that Highsmith racked up his 14 sacks and 21.5 tackles for loss against the likes of Gardner-Webb and Massachusetts. But one of the 6-4, 242-pound rusher’s most impressive games this season came against Clemson when he beat left tackle Jackson Carman for a sack and played well throughout. Highsmith is a self-made prospect who is smart, athletic and tough. Don’t be shocked if he ends up a top-75 selection.) (12-27-19): https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl-draft-2020-draft-prospects-to-watch-from-every-college-bowl-game-175124452.html
2019 Bahamas Bowl Five Things Learned: Buffalo 31, Charlotte 9 (Buffalo’s offensive tackles, Evin Ksiezarczyk and Kayode Awosika, completed the tall task of limiting Highsmith who finished without a single tackle for loss.) (12-21-19): https://www.hustlebelt.com/2019/12/21/21032528/2019-bahamas-bowl-five-things-learned-buffalo-bulls-31-charlotte-49ers-9-jaret-patterson-leipold
1 NFL draft prospect from each 2019-20 college football bowl game worth watching (Charlotte 49ers defensive end Alex Highsmith is the name to watch in the first bowl game of the season. The senior defensive end was named a third-team AP All-American thanks to his 15 sacks and 21.5 tackles for loss. Highsmith, a former walk-on to Charlotte’s football team, is second in the nation in sacks and led Conference USA in run-stop percentage as a junior. ESPN’s Mel Kiper has Highsmith ranked as his No. 5 outside linebacker, after not having him in the top 10 earlier in the season.) (12-20-19): https://www.mlive.com/lions/2019/12/1-nfl-draft-prospect-from-each-2019-20-college-football-bowl-game-worth-watching.html
2019 College Bowl Preview: Bahamas and Frisco Bowls (The Charlotte 49ers come into this game with a few players who could be future NFL players, especially pass rusher Alex Highsmith. Highsmith is one of the best small school prospects in the entire 2020 NFL Draft and is certainly an under-the-radar draft prospect. Highsmith doesn’t have imposing size, and he isn’t going to give you much against the run, but he can provide a ferocious pass rush. He can explode off the snap, and he’s quick and relentless in pursuit.) (12-20-19): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2019-college-bowl-preview-bahamas-and-frisco-bowls/
Bahamas Bowl prospect preview: Buffalo vs Charlotte (Alex Highsmith, EDGE, Charlotte, 6-3, 248: No question, Highsmith is the best player in this game. Highsmith entered college as a linebacker and then shifted down to the 4i and 5-technique. Over his first three seasons with the 49ers, he saw moderate production, registering six sacks and 25.5 tackles for loss, but the talent has always been obvious. Here’s an example of Highsmith rushing from the 4i-technique. This past season, there was a coaching staff change and Highsmith was shifted out to the EDGE. His response was emphatically positive, registering 15 sacks and 21.5 tackles for loss in his final season. Here’s an example of Highsmith rushing from the standing JACK-like position. Highsmith will get the “Tweener” label because he mostly played with his hand in the dirt at under 250-pounds, but he is the type of player coach Patricia would use in a similar fashion to Devon Kennard/Austin Bryant at JACK.) (12-20-19): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2019/12/20/bahamas-bowl-prospect-preview-buffalo-charlotte-detroit-lions/
2020 NFL Draft prospect preview: Bahamas Bowl (Alex Highsmith, DE, 6-3, 244 pounds, Sr.: Highsmith is a story to root for and is another Charlotte prospect that has already made waves in Draft circles. The edge rusher is a former walk-on from down the road and was offered a scholarship after his redshirt freshman season. That became one of the best decisions in program history, as Highsmith has had a dominant career including an All-C-USA season last year when he set the school record for tackles for loss with 17.5. He earned All-C-USA again this season and played a vital role in helping Charlotte reach their first-ever bowl game.) (12-20-19): https://brownswire.usatoday.com/2019/12/20/2020-nfl-draft-prospect-preview-bahamas-bowl/
13 NFL draft sleepers to watch during bowl season (Charlotte edge rusher Alex Highsmith: The player most likely to stand out in the first bowl game of the season already has earned some praise from a higher level of competition. After Highsmith notched three tackles and a sack against Clemson this season, Tigers left tackle Jackson Carman said the former walk-on was "by far the fastest off the ball" of any player he's ever faced. The 6-4, 242-pound defensive end finished tied for second in the country with 14 sacks on the year and projects as an attractive option for a 3-4 team. The Bahamas Bowl should provide a decent test, as he'll be up against first-team All-Mid-American Conference left tackle Evin Ksiezarczyk and an offensive line that has only given up eight sacks all year.) (12-12-19): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/12/12/nfl-draft-2020-college-bowl-season-sleepers-detroit-lions/4407952002/
2020 East-West Shrine Bowl: Identifying 2020 NFL Draft prospects (Alex Highsmith, DE, Charlotte: Highsmith is a player I expect to win most of his one-on-one matchups against offensive linemen, due to his relentless motor. He gained national attention heading into his final season and was listed on the Bednarik Award preseason watch list. The 6-foot-4, 242-pound pass rusher finished his 49ers career with 178 tackles, 20 sacks, 46 tackles for loss, five passes defended, three forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery. He’s one of the more intriguing NFL Draft prospects at the Shrine Bowl. Highsmith boasts an insanely-quick first step off the ball — with violent hands to boot — and a vast array of pass rush moves in his arsenal. At 242 pounds, he’s lighter than most evaluators would like for an edge rusher, so he will have a lot of eyes on him to see how he holds up against some of the bigger, technically sound offensive tackles during the week. Highsmith is a highly disruptive force that never lets up, and is primed to become a Shrine week standout.) (12-19-19): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2020-east-west-shrine-bowl-profiling-2020-nfl-draft-prospects/
Prospects to watch in Bahamas Bowl (Alex Highsmith, EDGE: Highsmith came into the year as the most hyped prospect for the 49ers, and he delivered with 21.5 tackles for loss and 15 sacks in the regular season. At 6-foot-4 and 242 pounds, he's a smaller rusher who consistently wins at the point of attack with his dynamic first step and a nasty dip underneath the tackle. Highsmith is adequately strong too and did flash some counter moves -- like a spin -- this season. He gave Clemson some problems on the outside early in the season and finished that game with three tackles and a sack.) (12-12-19): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/bahamas-bowl-time-tv-channel-2020-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-in-buffalo-vs-charlotte/
College football: 2019 All-Draft Stock Team (ED ALEX HIGHSMITH, CHARLOTTE: Highsmith spent his 2018 season playing almost exclusively over or inside offensive tackles. For a player listed at 242 pounds, that was a blatant misuse of Highsmith’s skillset. This season, he’s been lining up well outside the tackles and racking up the pressures. He’s got excellent bend around the edge, resulting in a 91.1 pass-rushing grade this season after a 75.6 mark last year. The former walk-on snuck in the back end of our latest top-100.) (12-10-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-2019-all-draft-stock-team
5 defensive linemen who could make sense for Detroit Lions’ defense in NFL draft (Charlotte DE Alex Highsmith -- Keep an eye out for Charlotte’s Alex Highsmith as the draft draws closer. The redshirt senior has dominated the last two seasons in Conference USA with 40.5 tackles for loss and 18 sacks. Highsmith’s path from former walk-on at Charlotte to the nation’s second-highest sack leader with 15 speaks volumes to his ceiling. He’s listed at 6-foot-4, 242 pounds and is ranked inside PFF’s top five highest-graded pass rushers. Highsmith has some experience at linebacker, so he also comes with that flavor of versatility so often craved in Detroit. Last season, Highsmith led his conference in run-stop percentage at 13.2%. The next highest mark was 9.4%. So, he can truly do a little bit of everything. Highsmith is not ranked on ESPN’s big board or in the top 10 of defensive end prospects but does crack PFF’s big board at No. 98. He finished the season with a school-record 4.5 sacks, five tackles for loss and a career-high 12 tackles against Old Dominion last week. Charlotte is bowl eligible and Highsmith was recently invited to the Senior Bowl, so he has a couple of key showcase opportunities remaining.) (12-6-19): https://www.mlive.com/lions/2019/12/5-defensive-linemen-who-could-make-sense-for-detroit-lions-defense-in-nfl-draft.html
College Football: 2019 PFF All-Conference USA Team (First Team: Alex Highsmith, Charlotte: Highsmith has recorded the second-best PFF pass-rushing grade (91.9) and overall grade (90.0) among qualifying Conference USA edge defenders thus far this season. His 16 sacks lead the conference and are second-most in the nation, just two behind Ohio State’s Chase Young. ) (12-3-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-2019-pff-all-conference-usa-team
College Football Week 14 Eckrich Team of the Week (Alex Highsmith, Charlotte: Highsmith continued his dominant ways with another ridiculous performance. He recorded seven total pressures including five sacks in Charlotte's seventh win of the year, bullying his way past the ODU offensive line regularly. He chipped in with three more stops in the run game and one in the pass game as he was dominant in all facets of play for the 49ers.) (11-30-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-week-14-eckrich-team-of-the-week
Under the Radar Draft Prospects: Brandon Aiyuk headlines 2020 list (Alex Highsmith, Edge, Charlotte: Alex Highsmith is one of the best small school prospects in the entire 2020 draft and certainly an under the radar draft prospect. Highsmith doesn’t have an imposing size and he isn’t going to give you much against the run, yet he can provide a ferocious pass-rush. He can explode off the snap, is quick and is relentless in pursuit. Also, he has everything you want from a game-changing pass-rusher, as he can dip, bend and finish. In 2019, he has accounted for 10.5 sacks and 16.5 tackles for a loss. He offers tremendous position versatility, as he can play in a 4-3 defense with his hand in the dirt or he can play as a stand-up linebacker in a 3-4 defense. The clip below will showcase Highsmith’s ability to burst off the snap to get a sack. The right tackle didn’t stand a chance. Highsmith is relentless. In the video below, you will see him fight through a double team to lock up a sack. This was against the University of Tennessee and while they are not the cream of the crop in the SEC, it shows that Highsmith is capable of playing with the “big boys”. Alex Highsmith will likely be a top-120 draft selection when the dust settles. While he has not been announced yet, I’d love to see him at the Reese’s Senior Bowl, to see how he competes with the best of the best.) (11-29-19): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/under-the-radar-draft-prospects-aiyuk-headlines-2020-list/4/
College Football Week 13: 2020 NFL Draft Scouting Notes (Edge Alex Highsmith, Charlotte: Highsmith checked in at 98th on PFF’s latest draft board, so it’s not that egregious of an oversight. Still, the improvement Highsmith has made in four years since walking onto Charlotte’s football has us intrigued. He went from a 60.9 pass-rushing grade in 2016 to 71.2 in 2017 to 75.6 last year to 91.4 this season.) (11-26-19): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-college-football-week-13-2020-nfl-draft-scouting-notes
Alex Highsmith against Clemson (10-16-19): https://youtu.be/GnP6iynRTjg
2020 NFL draft: 5 prospect matchups to watch in Week 4 (Charlotte EDGE Alex Highsmith vs. Clemson OT Tremayne Anchrum: As the season progresses, smaller school studs are starting to emerge. Last week it was William Bradley-King. This week it’s Highsmith, who will have the opportunity to help his draft stock against the No. 1 team in the country. Highsmith broke the school record (held by Larry Ogunjobi) with 17.5 tackles for loss in 2018. Highsmith was named Conference USA Defenisve Player of the Week after he posted seven tackles, four tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks with a forced fumble at Tennessee. He will be set to face Anchrum, the heart and soul on the Tigers’ offensive line. Anchrum is a balanced athlete, who is always finding a way to keep his man occupied. Meanwhile, Anchrum has a combination of initial burst, edge acceleration and flashes active hands to beat his opponent.) (9-22-19): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2019/09/21/2020-nfl-draft-5-prospect-matchups-to-watch-in-week-4/
2020 NFL Draft: Top prospect matchups to watch in Week 4 (Charlotte DE Alex Highsmith vs Clemson: This is pretty much it for the breakout edge defender from Charlotte. He’s not going to face a pair of tackle close to what Clemson brings to the table until he goes to whatever senior showcase bowl he chooses at the end of the year. Highsmith is currently the highest-graded edge defender in the country with six sacks and 17 pressures through three games. He has more burst than your average small school edge rushers that racks up big numbers too and will legitimately be on the NFL’s radar. A stout performance against left tackle Jackson Carman (78.9 overall grade) and right tackle Tremayne Anchrum (83.0) will be tough to come by, though. They are fresh off shutting down Syracuse’s Alton Robinson with a combination of quick passes and sound play.) (9-19-19): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-top-prospect-matchups-to-watch-in-week-4
PFF Rankings: Highest-graded seniors in college football through Week 3 (EDGE ALEX HIGHSMITH – CHARLOTTE – 92.2 GRADE: The former walk-on finds himself at the top of many PFF College lists early in 2019, as he is the highest-graded defensive lineman through three weeks and, as our Lead Draft Analyst Mike Renner pointed out, “this weekend’s game against Clemson will be huge for his eval.” Against Clemson this week, Highsmith gets to face the talented tackle duo of Tremayne Anchrum (83.0 grade) and Jackson Carman (78.9 grade), who’ve only allowed a combined total of four pressures so far this season.) (9-19-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-pff-rankings-highest-graded-seniors-in-college-football-through-week-3
PFF Rankings: Highest-graded defensive linemen in college football through Week 3 (ALEX HIGHSMITH – CHARLOTTE – 93.3 GRADE: Back in the top spot after his third consecutive game with at least five total pressures and three stops (he had five pressures and five stops this past week) is Highsmith. His 17 total pressures are the fifth-most among edge defenders, and his six sacks are tied for the most in the nation – all on only 68 pass-rush snaps. This is the week to watch Highsmith compete, as our lead draft analyst Mike Renner will undoubtedly have his eyes on Highsmith and how he performs against the No. 1 Clemson Tigers.) (9-18-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-pff-rankings-highest-graded-defensive-linemen-in-college-football-through-week-3
PFF Rankings: Highest-graded seniors in college football through Week 2 (3. EDGE ALEX HIGHSMITH, CHARLOTTE (92.5): Totaling 12 pressures and an additional six pass-rush wins in just 40 pass-rush snaps, Highsmith leads all qualifying FBS edge defenders in pass-rush grade (93.3) through Week 2. Of course, going against Gardner-Webb and App State paved the way for Highsmith’s favorable production. His grade will be put to the test when he goes against Clemson later this month.) (9-12-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-pff-rankings-highest-graded-seniors-in-college-football-through-week-2
PFF Rankings: Highest-graded defensive linemen in college football through Week 2 (ALEX HIGHSMITH, CHARLOTTE – 92.5 GRADE: The highest-graded edge defender a week ago, Highsmith continued his excellent play in week 2. He now has 12 total QB pressures, including five sacks to go along with seven stops. His current pass-rush win percentage of 45% is tops among all defensive linemen and would shatter the previous season’s high if he continues that pace. In two weeks, our lead draft analyst Mike Renner will have his eyes on Highsmith and how he performs against the No. 1 Clemson Tigers.) (9-11-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-pff-rankings-highest-graded-defensive-linemen-in-college-football-through-week-2
College Football Rankings: Highest-graded defensive linemen through Week 1 (Alex Highsmith – Charlotte: The former walk-on is starting to build a serious resume. In 2018, Highsmith was a top-20 overall graded edge defender and the highest-graded in run defense. Saturday was no different. He recorded seven total pressures, including three sacks, and three stops. His 68.4% win percentage was second nationally among all defenders with at least 10 pass-rush snaps.) (9-4-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-rankings-highest-graded-defensive-linemen-through-week-1
PFF Rankings: Highest-graded defensive linemen in college football through Week 2 (ALEX HIGHSMITH, CHARLOTTE – 92.5 GRADE: The highest-graded edge defender a week ago, Highsmith continued his excellent play in week 2. He now has 12 total QB pressures, including five sacks to go along with seven stops. His current pass-rush win percentage of 45% is tops among all defensive linemen and would shatter the previous season’s high if he continues that pace. In two weeks, our lead draft analyst Mike Renner will have his eyes on Highsmith and how he performs against the No. 1 Clemson Tigers.) (9-11-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-pff-rankings-highest-graded-defensive-linemen-in-college-football-through-week-2
College Football Rankings: Highest-graded defensive linemen through Week 1 (Alex Highsmith – Charlotte: The former walk-on is starting to build a serious resume. In 2018, Highsmith was a top-20 overall graded edge defender and the highest-graded in run defense. Saturday was no different. He recorded seven total pressures, including three sacks, and three stops. His 68.4% win percentage was second nationally among all defenders with at least 10 pass-rush snaps.) (9-4-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-rankings-highest-graded-defensive-linemen-through-week-1
2020 NFL Draft: Mason Fine leads the C-USA’s silent band of monsters (Alex Highsmith, EDGE, Charlotte: Remember that It factor I just referenced? Alex Highsmith has that too. Highsmith has a story that could be the next great football movie. Started as a walk on off-ball linebacker at UNC Charlotte; worked his butt off to get off of the scout team and onto the field and hasn’t looked back. At 6’3, 242, this is a strong man, and all he does is work. Highsmith has strong hands and uses them very well in the run game. That strength translates to the passing game well and as he executes a powerful bull rush that has offensive tackles complaining about their cleats when they fall. Highsmith and the Charlotte defense may not face a lot of top end competition, but they completely stoned Tennessee’s offense when they met them last season. The 49ers held the Vols to 192 total yards and 20 yards rushing. And Highsmith had a lot to do with that. Highsmith is going to be a good run defender at the next level; you can tell that by his 17.5 tackles for loss which counted for 5th in the C-USA and also broke Larry Ogunjobi‘s old school record. But for him to stay on a roster, he will need to add some variety to his pass rush. The good thing is that Fine can also contribute on special teams while he develops on defense. Charlotte running a 4-2-5 defense this season should help Highsmith develop his outside rush since he was often in a three-technique rushing to contain last season. With Highsmith’s work ethic and drive, theirs no telling where his talent can take him.) (6-20-19): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2020-nfl-draft-mason-fine-leads-the-c-usas-silent-band-of-monsters/
DE Julian Okwara:
Scouting Reports:
ND Profile: https://und.com/roster/julian-okwara/
NFL.com: https://www.nfl.com/prospects/julian-okwara?id=32194f4b-5702-9663-85a0-2051a10bc13c
Draft Network: https://thedraftnetwork.com/player/julian-okwara/oNLsGzW59B
Articles:
Five draft prospects who could go earlier than you think (Julian Okwara, Edge, Notre Dame: The younger brother of Lions defensive end Romeo Okwara has all the physical tools and recorded 12 sacks over the past two seasons, despite missing the last four games of his senior year with a broken fibula. Okwara's calendar has been booked up with video interviews as teams try to answer their main question: How committed is he to reaching his immense potential on a daily basis? "I already counted him to be a clear 1," an NFC personnel director said. "He's a bright kid and he's got other interests. But I think athletically, he can run and bend like no one else coming off the corner." Another exec compared him to Vikings Pro Bowl linebacker Anthony Barr in terms of being able to rush the passer and drop into coverage. Okwara (6-4, 252) did not work out at the combine, but the physical ability isn't in much doubt. "You just question his wiring," another NFC exec said. "I would say he's a lesser version of (Penn State edge Yetur) Gross-Matos in that they're both athletes and neither one of them play through people. Work the edges, finesse, use their length. How much dog do either one of them have in them?") (4-21-20): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001110154/article/2020-nfl-draft-five-players-who-could-be-firstround-surprises
Notre Dame's Julian Okwara, brother of former Giant Romeo Okwara, has tantalizing pass rush ceiling (4-17-20): https://www.nydailynews.com/sports/football/ny-julian-okwara-nfl-draft-preview-20200417-gy6v5xfqsnfh3pkoylzs7n7k3u-story.html
2020 NFL Draft: PFF's All Trump Card Team (EDGE – NOTRE DAME – JULIAN OKWARA (LONG-ARM): Between his springy get-off that saw him make Bruce Feldman’s freaks list last offseason and his 34 ⅜-inch arms, Okwara was tailor-made to bull-rush at the NFL level. The encouraging thing is we’ve already seen him do it consistently on tape at Notre Dame even against some of the top tackles in the country.) (4-15-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-pffs-all-trump-card-team
2020 NFL Draft: 10 prospects who won't get picked high enough (EDGE JULIAN OKWARA, NOTRE DAME: Okwara’s draft stock took a massive hit because of his fibula injury from Week 11 this past year. Throw in the fact that he had his worst performance of the season in Notre Dame’s biggest game of the year against Georgia in Week 4, and people are ready to write him off as a late second-round pick at best. Not so fast. Okwara has the athleticism, length and, most importantly, the production needed to thrive at the next level. Over the past two seasons, Okwara has produced a PFF pass-rushing grade that is the seventh best in the country and a pressure rate that ranks first (19.1%). Okwara is right behind Weaver at the tail-end of the first-round on PFF’s big board.) (4-10-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-college-football-2020-nfl-draft-10-prospects-who-wont-get-picked-high-enough
2020 NFL Draft: Perfect landing spots for the top 10 edge defenders (4. JULIAN OKWARA — TENNESSEE TITANS (PFF Big Board Rank: 23): Like Weaver, Okwara is an edge rusher PFF is higher on than most. And, again, it comes back to production. Okwara was highly productive across his last two seasons with the Fighting Irish, putting up pass-rushing grades of 86.5 in 2018 and 90.4 last season. He recorded pass-rush win rates of at least 23% both seasons, as well. That level of production, combined with his athleticism and length, makes him intriguing at the NFL level. He may be undersized, but Okwara is still able to bring power with the bull-rush, one of his go-to moves. He further highlighted that strength with 27 reps on the bench at the combine despite having 34 3/8-inch arms. On the other side, the Titans need to add some juice to their pass-rush. The only Titans edge rusher to record a pressure rate of at least 10% last season was Cameron Wake, who was released by the team earlier this offseason. They might have added Vic Beasley Jr. to start across from Harold Landry III, but Tennessee shouldn’t be happy with stopping there, given Beasley’s inconsistent play throughout his career. Okwara has shown the ability at Notre Dame to consistently pressure the quarterback out of a two-point stance, making him a natural fit on the Titans defense. He may be limited to a pass-rushing-specialist role early in his career, but there is no reason why he can’t have an impact in that role for Tennessee as he continues to develop.) (4-8-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-perfect-landing-spots-for-the-top-10-edge-defenders
2020 NFL Draft: FBS Independent Schools Scouting Reports (Julian Okwara, DE: Positives: Athletic pass rusher who can line up in a three-point stance or stand over tackle. Rarely off his feet, breaks down well and uses his hands to protect himself. Fluid when asked to twist or stunt, easily changes direction and plays with balance. Gets depth on pass drops, covers a lot of area on the field and bends off the edge. Keeps his feet moving and wraps up tackling. Negatives: Does not show great instincts or ball awareness. Possesses a thin build. Slow to get back to balance off the initial block. Occasionally late with his hands and must develop more moves. Analysis: Okwara flashed dominance throughout his college career and is a versatile defender who can play in a multitude of schemes. He needs to polish his techniques and line up in a system that does not ask him to read and react, but Okwara will be a productive three-down defender at the next level if properly coached.) (4-3-20): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/fbs-independent-schools-scouting-reports-2020-nfl-draft/
Don't let injuries scare you away from these 2020 NFL Draft prospects (EDGE JULIAN OKWARA, NOTRE DAME (PFF Big Board rank: 23): Julian Okwara suffered a gruesome fractured fibula in Week 11 of this past season. Up until that point, Okwara was playing at an elite level as a pass-rusher in 2019 by owning a 90.4 PFF pass-rush grade that ranked 12th among FBS edge rushers. It isn’t like Okwara was an unproven player prior to his 2019 — he was a near-elite pass-rusher in 2018, and when combining the last two years, he’s among the best to take the field in college football. Okwara’s two-year pass-rush grade ranks eighth among qualifying edge defenders, his 22.9% win rate is third and his 19.1% pressure rate is first by nearly a full percentage point (yes, even higher than Chase Young). He has to work on his tackling — he missed nearly a third of his total tackling attempts in 2019 — but it’s something we can live with given his proven dominance as a pass-rusher. Okwara’s athletic makeup and explosiveness off the line is exactly what you want in an edge rusher. Not to mention, his bend is filthy. His injury will likely cause him to fall out of the first round, but we still firmly believe Okwara is a player to look at in the tail end of the first round.) (4-1-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-dont-let-injuries-scare-away-from-these-2020-nfl-draft-prospects
If Lions go for Jeff Okudah, here are 10 second-round options that make sense (Julian Okwara, Edge, Notre Dame: Detroit's pass rush has been abysmal the past two seasons. Outside of Flowers, they haven't had a player consistently capable of winning one-on-one matchups on the edge. Assuming the team misses out on Young at the top of the draft, they could go fishing for value on Day 2. Okwara was trending toward being a first-round selection prior to breaking his leg in the middle of last season. He's still working his way back from that, but he should be fully ready by the start of his rookie season. Before the injury, he had 32 pressures on 202 snaps. He then showed up at the combine and put up an impressive 27 reps on the bench, despite having longer arms. That length and work ethic round out a solid resume.) (3-31-20): https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/03/31/if-detroit-lions-go-jeff-okudah-here-10-second-round-options-make-sense/5087218002/
2020 Draft: 5 groups of edge rushers (Greenard has first-round highs. They just need to happen more often. At 6-3 and a rocked-up 263 pounds with the ability to tightly wrap the corner, the Florida product looks the part. With more active hands, he could be one of the best value picks on Day 2. Okwara is similar in that his play can be stupidly dominant. He's strong with long arms and looks decently flexible. In my notes I wrote his pass-rushing moves as "adequate.") (3-30-20): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-draft-examining-chase-young-klavon-chaisson-and-rest-of-the-edge-rusher-class-by-type/
2020 NFL draft: Julian Okwara scouting report (3-20-20): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2020/03/20/2020-nfl-draft-julian-okwara-scouting-report/
2020 NFL draft: Utah RB Zack Moss has first-round talent but major injury concerns (56. Notre Dame EDGE Julian Okwara
(6-foot-4, 252 pounds): Yahoo Sports draft grade: 5.88. The lowdown: Okwara’s final season came to a disappointing end when he suffered a broken left fibula in November, and he wasn’t able to perform at the Senior Bowl or combine (other than the bench press) because of the injury. Before getting hurt, Okwara flashed first-round athletic traits. He reportedly ran a 4.53 40-yard dash at Notre Dame’s Junior Day in 2019, reportedly was clocked at 21 mph during the 2018 season and put up 27 reps on the bench in Indy — a shocking total for a man with 34 3/8-inch arms. Although his pass-rush production was limited in terms of sacks (outside of a few big games), Okwara supplied consistent pressure for the Irish. He has an outstanding get-off, can bend the edge with ease and can close in a hurry. He’d be well-served to clean up his pass-rush arsenal a bit, but Okwara has the kind of moldable traits that absolutely project to the next level — either as a stand-up rush end or a 3-4 outside linebacker. Okwara has made some freaky plays in college, such as a tipped-pass INT against North Carolina, an incredible sideline INT against Michigan (turning and dropping 15 yards in coverage) and a wild strip sack against Virginia. You’d love to have seen that translate to more consistent sack production, but his 40 hurries on 314 pass-rush snaps in 2018 and his 23 hurries on 202 pass-rush snaps in 2019 (per PFF) show how he impacts games. The element of his game that needs work is against the run. Okwara appeared frustrated in games where opponents pounded the rock (see Navy in 2018, Louisville and Michigan in 2019) and limited his pass-rush opportunities. Okwara looks occasionally helpless stacking and shedding blockers in the run game and missed a slew of tackles the past few years. Still, this is a pass-rushing league and Okwara brings that juice. He feasted on USC’s Austin Jackson, terrorized Virginia in a dominant performance last season and has enough upside to make him an early-impact defender in passing situations. By the numbers: Okwara finished his 35-game college career with 15.5 sacks and four forced fumbles, with 5.5 of those sacks and three of those FFs coming in two games — 2018 at Northwestern and 2019 vs. Virginia. Interesting fact: His older brother, Romeo Okwara, plays for the Detroit Lions. Julian was 8 and Romeo was 10 when they moved with their family from Nigeria. Draft range: Assuming his leg injury won’t hurt his draft stock too much, we feel Okwara should be a second-round pick. National Football Scouting gave him a first-round grade entering the season, and we suspect he would have landed there with a healthy final season.) (3-13-20): https://sports.yahoo.com/2020-nfl-draft-utah-rb-zack-moss-has-firstround-talent-but-major-injury-concerns-220751888.html
PFF's Mike Renner Discusses Day 2 Options for Detroit Lions ("Look at Romeo Okwara's brother, Julian. He is a Day two type of pass-rusher. He is much more athletic than his brother. He is a perfect sort of Patricia scheme edge rusher," Renner said. Renner added, "(Okwara) can drop into coverage, can rush the passer, can do a lot of different things athletically. They tend to like those guys off the edge -- Belichick disciples. I do think Okwara could be a good fit." Many draft experts have expressed that Okwara has all the physical tools you look for in a pass rusher.) (3-5-20): https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/-mike-renner-pff-discusses-day-two-options-for-lions-2020-nfl-draft
2020 NFL Draft: Prospects PFF likes more than other scouts and media (EDGE Julian Okwara, Notre Dame: If it weren’t for his season-ending fibula injury suffered in Week 11, Julian Okwara likely wouldn't be undervalued. Sure, the injury is a red flag, but when healthy Okwara proved to be one of the top edge defenders in the country. Over the last two seasons, he has produced a 19.1% pressure rate, which leads the FBS by nearly a full percentage point. We aren’t going to let him slide with his tackling, though. This is an area he must improve — he missed nearly a third of his total talking attempts in 2019. Okwara’s athletic makeup and explosiveness off the line is exactly what you want from your edge rusher. Not to mention, his bend is filthy.) (3-4-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-prospects-pff-likes-more-than-other-scouts-and-media
TIM AND MIKE: Combine Day 3 observations (Brotherly love: Notre Dame defensive end Julian Okwara is trying to follow in the footsteps of his older brother, Lions defensive end Romeo Okwara, and make it to the NFL. The younger Okwara was asked Thursday what it would be like if he found himself in Detroit playing alongside Romeo. "I told him I'd move in with him on the couch. He's going to have to pay the rent and I'm not splitting it, either," Julian said. "He's going to have to take care of everything. That's what older brothers do, they take care of the younger brother." – Tim Twentyman) (2-27-20): https://www.detroitlions.com/news/tim-and-mike-combine-day-3-observations-okudah-kinlaw
2020 NFL Scouting Combine: Notable quotes and analysis from Day 3 (“A lot of guys wonder where my strength comes from. I think us Nigerians have some extra muscles that some other people don't have” – Julian Okwara on his strength. Despite his undersized frame, Okwara is able to generate legitimate power with his bull-rush, which is one of his more frequently used pass-rushing moves. The use of that move has helped him record a pass-rushing grade of 85.0 or higher in both 2018 and 2019.) (2-27-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-scouting-combine-notable-quotes-and-analysis-from-day-3
Julian Okwara ready for rent-free perks if Detroit Lions pair him with older brother Romeo (2-27-20): https://www.mlive.com/lions/2020/02/julian-okwara-ready-for-rent-free-perks-if-detroit-lions-pair-him-with-older-brother-romeo.html
Edge defenders to target in free agency and the 2020 NFL Draft (The undervalued - Julian Okwara: Okwara has two straight seasons of high-level tape on his resume after notching pass-rushing grades of 87.5 and 90.4 in 2018 and 2019, respectively. He also boasted pass-rush win rates of 20% or higher in both of those seasons. Okwara is a bit undersized, which might lead to him being used as more of a designated pass-rusher, but he has shown the athleticism and the ability to win consistently in that role. Coming in at 23rd overall on the PFF Big Board, we value him more than the consensus heading into the draft. He could end up providing some value to a team based on where he ends up falling.) (2-27-20): https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-edge-defenders-free-agency-2020-nfl-draft
Lions 2020 Combine Preview: EDGE Rusher (Julian Okwara, Notre Dame: Okwara is the younger brother of Lions defensive end, Romeo Okwara. Julian doesn't have the same size as Romeo and has a little bit different play style as well. At this point, Julian is a raw prospect and could use some refinement to become more consistent when rushing the quarterback. While Romeo is a solid defender against the run in Detroit, Julian has struggled in that department -- likely moving him down the Lions' board. Some team will likely take a chance on Okwara early on Day 2 due to his pass-rushing potential.) (2-24-20): https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/detroit-lions-2020-nfl-combine-preview-edge-rusher
Who and what to watch at the 2020 NFL Combine: EDGE rushers (Julian Okwara, Notre Dame (Suggested by: Max Gerber, Scott Warheit and Ty Finch): Big things were expected from the brother of Lions EDGE rusher Romeo Okwara in 2019, but Julian had an underwhelming season that was cut short due to a broken leg, leaving a sour taste in the mouths of evaluators. Like his big brother, Julian is long, fast, quick, and athletic. Julian is expected to check-in under 250-pounds, and while he has the frame to add more weight, right now it negatively impacts his ability to set the edge. The lighter weight does allow him to drop into coverage, so depending on the team that selects him, he may need to maintain or gain weight. For the Lions, he would assuredly be a backup in year one with the upside to see significant snaps or start in year two.) (2-23-20): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/02/23/detroit-lions-2020-nfl-combine-preview-edge-rushers/
2020 NFL Draft edge rusher rankings: Chase Young in a class by himself, but there could be many early picks (Julian Okwara, Notre Dame: Okwara could stand up at the next level because he does look accustomed to dropping in coverage. He is a lean looking player who flashes a lot of pass rush tools but he needs to put it all together to realize his potential. The emphasis for him should be developing some counter moves and working to get off blocks.) (2-17-20): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-draft-edge-rusher-rankings-chase-young-in-a-class-by-himself-but-there-could-be-many-early-picks/
2020 NFL Combine: Defensive End, Edge Rusher Prospects, Invites, What To Watch For (5. Julian Okwara, Notre Dame 6-4, 248 (2) - Why He’s Here On The List: Pass rushers with his ability and game-changing skills are rare. Forget about him against the run – anything he can do against the power teams are going to be gravy – but when he’s closing on a quarterback or a play, it’s over. What The NFL Types Want To See: Is his leg okay? He wasn’t having an amazing year before suffering a broken leg, but he was explosive at times. His draft stock is totally and completely going to be based on his potential to get into the backfield, but he has to be healthy. Bottom Line: He’s not going to be for everyone. There will be problems against the tougher running teams, and he’s not quite big enough to be a true end. When he was on – he took over the Virginia game by himself – he showed off the upside to be a devastating NFL playmaker. He might be a one-trick guy, but it’s an amazing trick.) (2-11-20): https://collegefootballnews.com/2020/02/2020-nfl-combine-defensive-end-edge-rusher-prospects-invites-what-to-watch-for
2020 NFL Draft Position Rankings: Edge Defenders (4. JULIAN OKWARA, NOTRE DAME (Draft Board Rank: 22nd): Okwara is a certified freak athlete who looks as comfortable in coverage as he does rushing the passer. The Notre Dame edge defender may be undersized, but that didn't stop him from being one of the best bull-rushers in the country. He converts speed to power about as well as anyone in this draft class, as he's very flexible for a 6-foot-5 edge defender. It all led to a 90.4 pass-rushing grade before his year was cut short with injury. The worrisome thing is that he only had three total pressures on 43 pass-rushing snaps against Mekhi Becton and Andrew Thomas this season. He was also fairly hot and cold this past year, with two or fewer pressures in five of the nine games he played in last year. Okwara usually needs a head of steam to work his moves and could be seen as a designated pass-rusher only at the next level.) (2-3-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-position-rankings-edge-defenders
Meet Julian Okwara, Notre Dame's dominant pass-rushing prospect (1-22-20): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2020/01/22/2020-nfl-draft-prospects-julian-okwara-notre-dame-interview/
2020 Top Edge NFL Prospects: Don’t sleep on Chaisson (Julian Okwara, Notre Dame Fighting Irish (6’4″, 248 pounds): The Notre Dame Fighting Irish have a pair of dynamic defensive ends, and both will hear their names called in the 2020 NFL Draft. First, we take a look at the long and bendy weak-side defensive end, Julian Okwara. In 2019, Okwara’s production was underwhelming, accounting for only four sacks and two forced fumbles. Okwara possesses a lethal first step, strong punch, and dynamic ability to flatten around the corner. With Okwara, there are some warts, which include his struggles against the run. He also needs to get stronger and work on consistency when it comes to his technique. With that said, there are a lot of traits to work with here, and scouts will fall in love with the upside he presents. One of Okwara’s specialties is his strip-sack, which you can see in the clip below. Like, he is really good at the strip-sack. He does it again in the video below, but pay attention to his speed off the edge and his ability to bend. Okwara is a day-two pick, and he should contribute at the next level immediately. His length and explosion are what will catch the eyes of NFL front offices.) (1-1-20): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2020-top-edge-nfl-prospects-dont-sleep-on-chaisson/
Cardinals 2020 draft needs, fits, picks (Julian Okwara, EDGE, Notre Dame: Okwara is a really quick player around the edge but he needs to develop more of a counter move when his initial rush is stoned. The North Carolina native does a great job of honing in on the football when he gets into the backfield. One of the biggest areas of development from last season to 2019 has been his comfort in coverage and awareness to set the edge. There are not many veterans that would be a better teacher than Jones. ) (12-29-19): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-draft-arizona-cardinals-team-needs-draft-picks-prospects-to-watch/
Prospects to watch in Camping World Bowl (Julian Okwara, EDGE: Okwara is a high upside prospect. He has great speed and determination. The North Carolina native looks fluid in coverage and has done a much better job setting the edge in the run game this season. While the speed rush is his bread and butter, Okwara will need to develop and refine his other pass rush moves in order to reach his potential. Currently, when his initial rush is stopped, he does not have a strong counter move to pull out of his saddlebag. Most NFL talent evaluators will likely view him as a Day 2 selection but it would not be a surprise if he were taken higher based on his potential. ) (12-23-19): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/camping-world-bowl-time-tv-channel-2020-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-in-notre-dame-vs-iowa-state/
2020 NFL Draft: Top-five players at each defensive position entering College Football Week 14 (4. Julian Okwara, Notre Dame: Okwara suffered a leg injury earlier this year in Notre Dame’s win over Duke that’s already ended his season. Okwara ran a little hot and cold this year with three or more pressures in only four of the nine games he played in. He’s the most gifted athlete in the class after Chase Young, though, and he is already a proficient bull-rusher despite his size.) (11-26-19): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-top-five-players-at-each-defensive-position-entering-college-football-week-14
5 linebackers who could make sense for Detroit Lions’ defense in 2020 NFL Draft (Notre Dame DE/EDGE Julian Okwara -- Recognize that last name? Julian Okwara’s older brother is current Lions defensive lineman Romeo Okwara. Even without an inside source of information, Julian Okwara is an intriguing edge rusher prospect for a team in Detroit struggling to generate consistent pressure. The Notre Dame edge defender projects as an outside linebacker/edge specialist at the next level. The 6-foot-4, 248-pound senior had racked up four sacks and two forced fumbles this season before a season-ending leg injury last weekend. The younger Okwara registered eight sacks last season, and his draft stock will most likely fall due to his injury and corresponding surgery. “Okwara is the perfect blend of pocket-collapsing ability and coverage prowess for the Lions’ defense,” PFF wrote back in mid-October. “He’s one of the best bull-rushers in the country despite being only 240 pounds and has earned a 91.0 pass-rushing grade on the season so far.”) (11-15-19): https://www.mlive.com/lions/2019/11/5-linebackers-who-could-make-sense-with-detroit-lions-defense-in-2020-nfl-draft.html
NFL draft notes: If Dolphins miss on Tua or Burrow, there's a fascinating alternative (One pass rusher whose draft stock might have taken a hit this weekend was Notre Dame’s Julian Okwara. His season is now over after a broken fibula, and the timetable of the injury will complicate his draft evaluation. The 6-5, 245-pound rusher has had some dominant tape (check out the Virginia game) but also a few games that will leave evaluators digging even deeper. But the possibility of landing in Round 1 just went down with the injury, which also robbed Okwara of the chance of finishing the season on a high note.) (11-11-19): https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl-draft-if-dolphins-miss-on-tua-or-burrow-theres-a-fascinating-alternative-220045709.html
Notre Dame All-American defensive end Julian Okwara, potential first-round pick out for season (11-10-19): https://www.cbssports.com/college-football/news/notre-dame-all-american-defensive-end-potential-first-round-pick-julian-okwara-out-for-the-season/
NFL DRAFT PROSPECT SHOWDOWN: WEEK 9 (Defensive ends Julian Okwara and Khalid Kareem may be the best EDGE duo in the country. Through six games, the duo has come together for 8.5 sacks, 11 total tackles for loss, and two forced fumbles (both from Okwara). The two have made the list before, with Okwara serving as more of the high-potential speed rusher and Kareem as more of a gritty run defender with excellent hand usage in all phases of the game. Okwara and Kareem provide vastly different threats for Michigan's tackles, but both are going to feast on a frantic pocket player like Patterson. With a target like Patterson, the Notre Dame duo should be able to propel themselves above the 10-sack threshold. Getting to Patterson at least twice is well within reason, especially considering the offense only continues to spiral despite the payers theoretically having more comfort in the system two months in now. It could be a field day for the Fighting Irish front. Advantage: Okwara/Kareem) (10-23-19): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/prospect-vs-prospect/nfl-draft-prospect-showdown-week-9
2020 NFL Draft prospect Rankings: Top five players at each defensive position (3. Julian Okwara, Notre Dame: Against Virginia, Okwara showed why he’s going to be a problem for slow-footed tackles at the next level. Okwara has an absurd get-off that he pairs with terrific flexibility to either bend the edge or bull-rush tackles into the quarterback's lap. We usually worry about undersized edge rushers being able to challenge with the bull-rush in the NFL, but that’s not the case with the 245-pound Okwara.) (10-3-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-2020-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-top-five-players-at-each-defensive-position
College Football Week 5: 2020 NFL Draft Scouting Notes (STOCK UP - Edge Julian Okwara, Notre Dame: A week after facing his hardest test of the year, Okwara tore up the Virginia tackles for three sacks, a hit and four hurries on the day. His speed and bend off the edge was simply too much. We hadn’t seen Okwara rush much yet in obvious passing situations this season the way he was able to against Virginia, and it’s nice to see that dominance still intact for the number 17 overall player on our draft board.) (10-1-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-college-football-week-5-2020-nfl-draft-scouting-notes
NFL draft winners and losers: Lock Ohio State's Chase Young into top five – 'He’s better than [Nick] Bosa' (Irish pass rusher breaks out - One of my biggest complaints about Notre Dame’s talented edge rusher, Julian Okwara, has been his number of “almost” plays. Almost sacks, almost tackles for loss and so on — the 6-4, 248-pound Okwara often can be seen impacting and influencing plays but not always finishing them. On Saturday against Virginia, Okwara got home. More than once, in fact. Okwara was tremendous against the Cavaliers, throwing off the timing of their offensive dramatically with three sacks, two forced fumbles, two other QB hits, a fumble recovery and several other pressures. It was the kind of game NFL scouts were happy to see from him — and there were eight NFL teams in attendance Saturday, including two general managers, the Vikings’ Rick Spielman and Colts’ Chris Ballard. They were the first three sacks of the season for Okwara. One scout we spoke with earlier this year said Okwara could be distracted by his stated preseason goal of reaching 18.5 sacks, which would be an Irish record, for this season. Notre Dame head coach Brian Kelly seemed to agree. “I love what Julian did,” Kelly said. “He got back to playing really physical football. … I think Julian would tell you the whole kind of sack thing was too much of a personal thing, and he got back to playing physical football and within the realm of the defense, and it really showed itself today. And he’s going to take off from here.” Okwara is projected as a top-50 prospect with the chance to land in the back half of Round 1. Saturday’s game could be an indication that he’s ready to break loose.) (9-30-19): https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl-draft-winners-and-losers-you-can-lock-os-us-chase-young-into-the-top-five-174051520.html
College Football Week 5 Eckrich Team of the Week (EDGE DEFENDER - Julian Okwara, Notre Dame: Finally, the emergence of Okwara, as the Fighting Irish got a big game from their big-name player on defense and a victory against Virginia. Okwara recorded eight total pressures on 45 pass-rushing snaps including three sacks, a QB hit and four more hurries. He forced two fumbles and was integral in the victory for Notre Dame.) (9-29-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-week-5-eckrich-team-of-the-week
College Football Week 4: 2020 NFL Draft Scouting Notes (TOP PROSPECT MATCHUP REPORT - Andrew Thomas vs. Julian Okwara and Khalid Kareem: Thomas had only 11 true pass sets on the day, which is a low number yet reasonably common of the Georgia offense. On them, Thomas excused himself alright. He whiffed on one inside move from Khalid Kareem and ceded ground into Jake Fromm’s lap on a two-handed bull-rush from Okwara. He also son’d Okwara, throwing him nearly to the turf when passing off a stunt. What we saw from Thomas should definitely be seen as encouraging — for a true junior as inexperienced as Thomas is to hold his own against a couple of seniors as talented as Notre Dame’s duo is no small feat. The fact that Okwara and Kareem weren’t completely shut out means this isn’t a loss for them, as both did work against right tackles Cade Mays and Isaiah Wilson. The biggest takeaway for Okwara though might be his run defense —or lack thereof — where he earned a 34.5 grade this past week.) (9-24-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-college-football-week-3-2020-nfl-draft-scouting-notes
2020 NFL draft: 5 prospect matchups to watch in Week 4 (Georgia OT Andrew Thomas vs. Notre Dame EDGE Khalid Kareem, Julian Okwara: Thomas, who is arguably the best offensive tackle in the country, will finally have his first tough test this season on Saturday to help continue to make his case as a top-15 selection in next April’s draft. Thomas is best in pass protection, but Okwara and Kareem know how to cause fits. Okwara, who has a good chance to go in the first-round as well, hasn’t popped on the stat sheet, but he has lived in opposing backfields by winning with power and heavy hands. Meanwhile, Kareem isn’t going to go as high as him teammate in the draft, but he will still find a role in the NFL as an edge rusher that contributes against the run, and offers some eye-popping length to fend off offensive tackles to get after the passer.) (9-22-19): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2019/09/21/2020-nfl-draft-5-prospect-matchups-to-watch-in-week-4/
Five possible Lions 2020 draft prospects: Week 4 (Julian Okwara, DE, Notre Dame: The Lions found a diamond in the rough with one Okwara, claiming Romeo off waivers from the Giants last year. He immediately emerged as a productive member of the team's defensive line rotation, earning a two-year extension this offseason. Given that, who would say no to a second Okwara? Julian plays the same position, but isn't as big as his brother. Both are listed at 6-foot-4, but Romeo has 15-20 pounds on his younger sibling. Still, the Julian has generated more buzz as a prospect after racking up 61 pass-rush pressures and 8.0 sacks as a junior. Georgia counters with a solid offensive line, led by likely first-round pick Andrew Thomas at left tackle.) (9-20-19): https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/09/20/five-possible-detroit-lions-2020-draft-prospects-week-4/2383624001/
College Football Game of the Week: Notre Dame vs Georgia (Obviously, the top matchups can be found on the line of scrimmage. Notre Dame defensive end, Julian Okwara was given mid-first-round grades by NFL scouts coming into the season and is viewed as one of the better edge rushers available in the 2020 NFL Draft. Teammate Khalid Kareem is not far behind, universally receiving second-round grades. Okwara is more athletic and a better pass-rusher while Kareem is more stout at the point of attack and a much better run defender. Don’t forget about senior Daelin Hayes, another talented next-level defensive end who comes off the bench for the Irish.) (9-20-19): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/college-football-game-of-the-week-notre-dame-georgia/
2020 NFL Draft: Top prospect matchups to watch in Week 4 (Georgia LT Andrew Thomas vs. Notre Dame's Khalid Kareem and Julian Okwara: When Notre Dame heads down to Georgia, it will be the largest collection of draftable talent facing off in any game we’ve seen yet this season. The marquee matchup will be right along the line of scrimmage. Both Andrew Thomas and Julian Okwara look very likely to be first-round selections come next April, checking in at 10th and 17th on the PFF draft board, respectively. Kareem is more of a Day 2 guy, but that’s still a great litmus test for both him and Thomas. Okwara is one of the best players in the nation at converting speed-to-power with a prodigious combo of length and burst. Kareem is more of pure power player and even played defensive tackle early in his Notre Dame career. Thomas is currently the highest-graded tackle in the country and won’t face a better edge duo all season, and the Notre Dame duo won’t face a better tackle. This is tape scouts will be coming back to frequently next spring.) (9-19-19): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-top-prospect-matchups-to-watch-in-week-4
NFL DRAFT PROSPECT SHOWDOWN: WEEK 4 (Okwara is the Fighting Irish’s best chance to get through Thomas on passing downs. To no surprise, Notre Dame’s defense is crafted to enable Okwara as a rusher. Unlike Kareem, Okwara often plays out of a stand-up position and from an alignment that is a gap removed from the offensive tackle. Okwara is a fairly bendy and agile pass-rusher, but it’s his ability to convert speed to power that carries the most weight in his skill set. If given the space to build up for a couple steps, Okwara can move into an offensive tackle’s chest in such quick, powerful fashion that they have no option but to stumble backwards and hope to recover before they bump into the quarterback. Okwara will have a tough time winning that way versus Thomas, though. Thomas has a fierce anchor and won’t let Okwara win off the initial punch. It’s going to take a little something extra from Okwara to get the best of Thomas. Suffice to say, Notre Dame’s defensive ends have a tough task ahead of them. Thomas is looking to be a top-10 pick seven months from now. The two Irish ends will be solid pros, too, especially Okwara, but Thomas is going to hand them one of their quieter performances as a duo. Advantage: Thomas) (9-18-19): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/prospect-vs-prospect/nfl-draft-prospect-showdown-week-4
2020 NFL Draft, Notre Dame and independents preview: Will Ian Book find big-time success in the NFL (Julian Okwara, DE: The 6-foot-5, 240-pound pass rusher broke out in 2018, recording 8.0 sacks and 12.5 tackles for loss. While he isn't the biggest DE, Okwara makes up for it with his incredibly high motor that will undoubtedly impress scouts who watch his film. Okwara is relentless in his pursuit of opposing quarterbacks, as he recorded a whopping 61 pressures last season. Our Ryan Wilson had him going to the Tennessee Titans with the 12th overall pick in a recent mock draft.) (8-19-19): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2020-nfl-draft-notre-dame-and-independents-preview-will-ian-book-find-big-time-success-in-the-nfl/
DE Jason Strowbridge:
Scouting Reports:
North Carolina Profile: https://goheels.com/sports/football/roster/jason-strowbridge/16317
NFL.com: https://www.nfl.com/prospects/jason-strowbridge?id=32195354-5273-0244-9d30-603b05a32381
Draft Network: https://thedraftnetwork.com/player/jason-strowbridge/IfVGBEsroB
Articles:
20 players Prisco likes more than scouts do (Jason Strowbridge, DL, North Carolina: I always like to look for later-in-the-draft defensive linemen and Strowbridge is one of those guys. He went to North Carolina as a big recruit from South Florida, but didn't quite play up to the hype. Even so, the talent is there. He will be tweener lineman on the next level, capable of playing end and sliding inside in pass-rush situations. If he adds some lower-body bulk, he could play inside full time since he has the frame for it. ) (4-14-20): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/pete-priscos-2020-nfl-draft-better-than-team-20-guys-i-like-more-than-the-scouts-do/
2020 NFL draft: QB Jalen Hurts lands inside our top 100 (97. North Carolina EDGE Jason Strowbridge (6-foot-4, 275 pounds): Yahoo Sports draft grade: 5.76. The lowdown: The former 4-star recruit showed his impact more readily in 2017 and 2018 with back-to-back 5.5-sack seasons (11 games in 2018), followed by a disappointing senior season with only three sacks. Strowbridge helped boost his profile with a strong Senior Bowl effort, weighing in at a slimmed-down 267 pounds after being listed for most of his college career at 285. Most NFL teams we spoke with believe Strowbridge has the power and quickness to fit best as a base end on early downs while projecting more of an interior rusher in passing situations. He has the requisite length, strength, toughness and rush instincts to carve out a solid role, even if he’ll be challenged by more athletic blockers. Strowbridge was asked to line up just about everywhere from a 0-technique (head up on the center) on occasion to a 7-technique rusher (outside the offensive tackle) on both sides of the line. In one-on-one pass-rush drills at the Senior Bowl, Strowbridge took on all types of blockers and consistently won. His excellent hand use often served him well, and he blocked four kicks in his career (two in 2019). Despite lacking in quickness and lateral movement skills (a 7.45-second 3-cone drill at the combine), Strowbridge can make up for that with his anticipatory skills and ability to find the ball. By the numbers: PFF credited Strowbridge with nine missed tackles last season, and six of them came in two games: four in the loss to Appalachian State and two against Georgia Tech. Interesting fact: Strowbridge considered sitting out UNC’s Military Bowl game in 2019 against Temple but opted to play. “Every opportunity, I want to take advantage of it,” he said. “Why would I sit out?” Strowbridge played 58 snaps, made three tackles and blocked an extra point in the 55-13 win. Draft range: Round 4) (3-9-20): https://sports.yahoo.com/2020-nfl-draft-jalen-hurts-lands-inside-our-top-100-231949502.html
2020 NFL Combine winners: Interior defensive lineman (Jason Strowbridge, North Carolina 6-4, 275, 10 y/s: 1.72, Short shuttle: 4.37: Maybe I am cheating a bit here including Strowbridge with the interior defensive line after he worked out with the EDGE rushers at the Combine, but the fact of the matter is, he played on the interior for the Tar Heels, my NFL comparison for him is Kevin Strong, and I’m not sure he has the 3-cone to live on the edge on a regular basis. What he does have is the ability to contribute in a variety of ways similar to Strong (and Da’Shawn Hand), and his short shuttle is a great indicator of how he would add speed to the defensive line.) (3-1-20): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/03/01/2020-nfl-combine-winners-interior-defensive-lineman/
Detroit Lions 2020 NFL Combine preview: Defensive line (Jason Strowbridge, DT, North Carolina: Another prospect from the Senior Bowl, Strowbridge seemed to hold coach Matt Patricia's attention throughout the week. Measuring in at 6-foot-4, 270 pounds in Mobile, he's more a tweener at that size than he was played inside for the Tar Heels, but he always could pack some pounds back on after he performs the combine drills. ) (2-17-20): https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/02/17/detroit-lions-2020-nfl-combine-preview-defensive-line/4759485002/
2020 NFL Draft Stock - Post-Senior Bowl II (Up - Jason Strowbridge, DE, North Carolina
Strowbridge quietly had a really good week at the Senior Bowl. The sturdy defensive end is tough at the point of attack, possessing the strength to hold his ground in the run game. During the pass-rushing one-on-ones in Mobile, Strowbridge showed more quickness and athleticism than his 2019 sack total of three would have suggested. If Strowbridge has a good combine performance, he could rise in the mid-rounds of the 2020 NFL Draft. It is a weak class of edge defenders, and that helps Strowbridge, as he could be a solid base end in either a 3-4 or 4-3 defense.) (2-11-20): http://walterfootball.com/draft2020stock_22.php
2020 NFL Combine: Defensive End, Edge Rusher Prospects, Invites, What To Watch For (13. Jason Strowbridge, North Carolina 6-4, 267 (4) - NFL Combine What Matters: Can he be unblockable? He might not be the typical tackle, and he’s not really an end, but he needs to find a home and a role. At his size, he can be a too-quick end in the right system.) (2-11-20): https://collegefootballnews.com/2020/02/2020-nfl-combine-defensive-end-edge-rusher-prospects-invites-what-to-watch-for
3 Players Who Improved Draft Stock Following Senior Bowl Practices (DE Jason Strowbridge, North Carolina: He routinely displayed an ability to blow past edge blockers and his array of moves will make him a valuable addition to a team's defensive line.) (1-25-20): https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/3-players-whose-nfl-draft-stock-rose-following-senior-bowl-practices
Mekhi Becton headlines ACC draft prospects on the rise (Jason Strowbridge, Defensive Tackle, North Carolina (6’5″, 267 pounds): Jason Strowbridge is another ACC draft prospect on the rise after a strong showing at the 2020 Reese’s Senior Bowl. His play was so impressive in Mobile that he made Pro Football Network draft contributor Matt Valdovinos’ breakdown of “2020 Senior Bowl Risers: Jordan Love headlines Tuesday’s list” from the second day of Senior Bowl practices. The beauty of a player like Strowbridge is that he can line up at any position along the defensive line, whether it be a 1-tech, 3-tech or 5-tech. Also, he offers tremendous scheme versatility. He possesses good size and exhibits the ability to explode off the snap, which allows him to create consistent penetration. Strowbridge has violent hands, which is evident in his powerful punch and excels as a stout run defender. While he hasn’t put everything together as a pass rusher, he has coachable tools and some traits that will have NFL teams excited to work with him. Below, you will see a clip of Strowbridge dominating Connecticut left tackle Matt Peart during Senior Bowl week. Watch how he uses his hands to rip through Peart’s attempt to block him…impressive. Throughout Senior Bowl practices, Strowbridge dominated most of his one-on-one reps. In the clip below, you will get to see his power and relentless effort. Jason Strowbridge entered Senior Bowl week as a late round selection; however, his impressive week in Mobile might have elevated him to a fourth round selection in the 2020 NFL draft.) (1-31-20): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/mekhi-becton-headlines-acc-draft-prospects-on-the-rise/
Six players to watch for the Detroit Lions after a week at Senior Bowl (Defensive lineman Jason Strowbridge: Patricia watched the former North Carolina defensive lineman a lot during practices. He could be an outside-inside player that could give depth behind Trey Flowers. He didn’t have massive sack numbers -- 11.5 career sacks -- but was productive off the line with 127 career tackles.) (1-31-20): https://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/36273/six-players-to-watch-for-the-detroit-lions-after-a-week-at-senior-bowl
A Senior Bowl prospect for every round for Lions (Third Round - Jason Strowbridge, DL, North Carolina: Strowbridge hadn't been on my radar, but he appeared to be one of coach Matt Patricia's pet projects throughout the week of practice. Listed at 285 pounds by North Carolina, he came to Mobile slimmed down, tipping the scales at 267. As a big-bodied edge rusher, compared to an undersized defensive tackle, his play strength is no longer a concern. When rushing the passer, he showed a nice blend of speed and power. Additionally, with his experience playing inside, it allows him to move there on obvious passing downs. What helps sell me on his potential as a Lions' selection was how well Strowbridge took and applied the coaching points being given by Patricia.) (1-26-20): https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2020/01/26/2020-senior-bowl-prospect-every-round-nfl-draft-detroit-lions/4580927002/
2020 Senior Bowl Stock Watch (6. Jason Strowbridge, DE, North Carolina: Of all the players in this year’s game Strowbridge might have changed the perception of himself the most. Instead of a big defensive end / defensive tackle ‘tweener who was more of a base end or five-technique we saw a svelte, athletic edge with some legitimate pass rush juice. Expectations need to be kept in check because Strowbridge is still more of a power than speed type, but it’s not a stretch to say he had best week of practices of any defensive end in Mobile. At the vert least Strowbridge certainly looks like a far more fascinating prospect than he did a week ago.) (1-26-20): http://draftcountdown.com/2020/2020-senior-bowl-stock-watch/
2020 All-Senior Bowl team (Jason Strowbridge | North Carolina: This was the most impressive position group of the week, and there are a handful of prospects who could easily find their names listed here. My pick goes to Strowbridge, though, who was a dominant force all week long. He lined up inside and outside, winning his reps with a combination of physical traits and technique, and even batted down multiple passes at the line. He was one of the most pleasant surprises of the entire event.) (1-24-20): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2020/01/25/2020-all-senior-bowl-team-nfl-draft-justin-herbert-javon-kinlaw/
10 players who impressed at Senior Bowl practices (4. Jason Strowbridge, DE, North Carolina, 6-4, 267: Strowbridge was a handful off the edge this week in both one-on-one pass-rushing drills and team periods. He has a knack for the ball, and when he didn't get home, he was able to get his hands on a handful of passes. He's recorded 14.0 sacks over the last two seasons for the Tar Heels, and he has the size and motor to be a productive player coming off the edge at the next level.) (1-24-20): https://www.detroitlions.com/news/10-players-who-impressed-at-senior-bowl-practices-x2738
Senior Bowl risers: Who won the week? WR steal? (Keep an eye on North Carolina's Jason Strowbridge as a potential late riser in the process following his performance in Mobile. The 6-4, 267-pound defensive end created quite the buzz in scouting circles with his play throughout the week. Evaluators raved about his quickness, athleticism and versatility, as he routinely blew past edge blockers in drills. Strowbridge's first-step quickness and burst stood out when evaluating his college tape, and his array of moves (speed rush, bull rush and spin move) could make him a disruptive force in a scheme that puts him in a position to play on the move. With the UNC standout also having experience at defensive tackle, he could see his value rise as a potential chess piece for a team employing a "NASCAR" scheme (four speed rushers on the field at the same time) in nickel situations.) (1-24-20): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001098956/article/senior-bowl-risers-javon-kinlaw-won-the-week-two-qbs-flashed
2020 Reese’s Senior Bowl Practice Report: North Team (Thursday - Strowbridge showed a bit more finesse winning on the outside today, something I desperately wanted to see. He lost a 1v1 vs Josh Jones pretty brutally, but other wise he was excellent. Analysis - One of my favorite players to watch this week, Strowbridge was absolutely unblockable. His hands were active and his hips were flexible. He does have some refinement to be had before he’s an every down player. However his frae and athletic ability lead me to believe he can be a strong player in the NFL. He’s the first player I’ll be evaluating when I return home from Mobile.) (1-24-20): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2020-reeses-senior-bowl-practice-report-north-team/2/
Senior Bowl: Day 3 (Jason Strowbridge, DE, North Carolina. Strowbridge can be a challenging evaluation on tape because he has the long frame with growth potential that teams typically gravitate toward, but he is a bit of a tweener from a positional standpoint. This was an important week for Strowbridge to help teams visualize a role for him in their scheme. It looks like that's exactly what he did. He played with skilled, strong hands at the point of attack and in activating finishing moves to get past pass protection in one-one-one drills. The Lions' Matt Patricia, who is coaching Strowbridge's North team this week, paid plenty of attention to the former Tar Heel, which makes sense considering his level of play in practice and the similarity of his build/skill set relative to guys like Trey Flowers and Deatrich Wise, whom Patricia coached in New England (as well as in Detroit, in Flowers' case).) (1-23-20): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001098817/article/2020-senior-bowl-top-7-nfl-draft-winners-from-week-of-practice
2020 Senior Bowl – North Practice Report (One of the great things about getting to see prospects in person at the Senior Bowl is that sometimes they surprise and defy preconceived notions. That has absolutely been the case with North Carolina DL Jason Strowbridge. Coming into the week I thought of Strowbridge as a defensive tackle / defensive end ‘tweener with limited pass rush potential. Instead he weighed in 18 pounds lighter than he was listed with the Tar Heels, with a far more linear and svelte physique. Reshaping his body has also made Strowbridge more athletic, quick and explosive with far better movement skills than I recall seeing on tape. I kind of scoffed when I saw Strowbridge listed as an “EDGE” when the roster was released but as it turns out that wasn’t so much of a leap. That’s not to say Strowbridge is ever going to be a dynamic, double-digit sack artist. After all, he only notched 11.5 over four years in college. Strowbridge definitely has more pass rush upside and positional versatility than I gave him credit for coming into the week though. Plus he still provides the strength, technique and length that made him a fringe Day 2 / Day 3 prospect beforehand. Needless to say Strowbridge’s draft stock is trending upwards.) (1/22/20): http://draftcountdown.com/2020/2020-senior-bowl-north-practice-report-1-22-20/
TWENTYMAN: Senior Bowl Day 2 observations (Two for one: I mentioned North Carolina defensive end Jason Strowbridge in this column Tuesday for his performance in the first North Team practice. Strowbridge was at it again Wednesday, continuing his strong play. He got his hands on two Patterson passes in a team period, finishing another strong day with some good one-on-one reps and two passes defended.) (1-22-20): https://www.detroitlions.com/news/twentyman-senior-bowl-day-2-observations
2020 Senior Bowl: Winners, losers from Day 2 practices (Winner – North Team EDGE: Michigan’s Josh Uche, Utah’s Bradlee Anae, Michigan State’s Kenny Willekes and North Carolina Jason Strowbridge all had themselves a field day. Uche was winning with a speed and bend. Anae showed a blend of an elite first step and converting speed to power. Willekes showcased a few inside moves along with a high energy that didn’t go unnoticed. Strowbridge shined both inside and outside, displaying a powerful upper body and active hands.) (1-22-20): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2020/01/22/2020-senior-bowl-winners-losers-from-day-2-practices/
2020 Senior Bowl: Top takeaways from Day 2 practices (North Carolina’s Jason Strowbridge continued to show his versatility as both a pass rusher (while lining up inside and outside), and by batting down multiple passes at the line.) (1-22-20): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2020/01/22/senior-bowl-2020-nfl-draft-day-2-takeaways-jalen-hurts-justin-herbert-jordan-love-javon-kinlaw/
Senior Bowl Defensive Linemen (Jason Strowbridge, North Carolina: Though nothing special, Jason Strowbridge has been a beacon of consistency for the Tar Heels front for the past few seasons. In each of the past three seasons, Strowbridge has earned at least 5.5 tackles for loss while upping his solo tackles mark each year. Strowbridge, a converted defensive end, is best when he can shoot gaps in the run game or when he is let loose as a pass-rusher. While being a bit underweight at 6-foot-5, 285-pounds did not hurt him much in college, it’s likely Strowbridge is going to need to add some beef to survive in NFL trenches. ) (1-22-20): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/evaluations/senior-bowl-defensive-linemen
Live observations from Wednesday’s 2020 Senior Bowl Practice (2:29 pm ET: North Carolina DL Jason Strowbridge has FEASTED in one-on-one’s so far. He’s been an eye-opener; I’m very excited to get to his film. – Matt Valdovinos. 2:00 pm ET: North Carolina DL Jason Strowbridge looks insanely athletic in drills for a big man. He moved through the cones like he was a safety. – Tony Pauline. ) (1-22-20): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/live-from-the-2020-reeses-senior-bowl-wednesday-practice-observations/
2020 Senior Bowl Risers: Jordan Love headlines Tuesday’s list (Jason Strowbridge/DL/North Carolina: Strowbridge is not someone I was familiar with coming into the week, but he showed out today. He has elite size at 6’4″ and 267 pounds with a massive 80-inch wingspan. Strowbridge lined up all along the defensive line, from 1-tech to 5-tech and performed well at all of them. His hands were violent, and his get-off was quick. Strowbridge will be someone I absolutely keep my eye on for the rest of the week.) (1-21-20): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2020-senior-bowl-risers-jordan-love-headlines-tuesdays-list/
2020 Reese’s Senior Bowl Practice Report: North Team (Strowbridge is someone who I wasn’t familiar with coming into the week. However, he measured in excellently and shows a wide arange of pass rusher moves. Strowbridge is a riser for the draft.) (1-21-20): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2020-reeses-senior-bowl-practice-report-north-team/2/
TWENTYMAN: Senior Bowl Day 1 observations (High five: Davis wasn't the only Lions coach dishing out praise Tuesday. Patricia was front and center for the North Team pass-rushing drills, giving instruction to the defenders after nearly every rep. He even offered up a high-five to North Carolina's Jason Strowbridge after a great move on Temple offensive lineman Matt Hennessy for a clean rush up the middle. Strowbridge also forced a Shea Patterson throw away in a team period later in practice with a terrific rush up the middle.) (1-21-20): https://www.detroitlions.com/news/twentyman-senior-bowl-day-1-observations
2020 Senior Bowl, Day 1: Javon Kinlaw shines; a DE for Patriots? (Jason Strowbridge, DE, North Carolina. All I could think of standing next to Bill Belichick on the sideline on Tuesday while watching Strowbridge was Deatrich Wise. The former Tar Heel looks like a Patriots pass rusher. Wise went to the Pats in the fourth round in 2017. A lot of times you'll see guys with traits who are kind of raw go in that round, and Strowbridge might fit that mold. He's tough. He's physical. And he helped himself on Tuesday. His North team is being coached this week by the Lions' Matt Patricia, Belichick's former D-coordinator. So who knows? Maybe Detroit and New England will both be targeting him come April.) (1-21-20): http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001098389/article/2020-senior-bowl-day-1-javon-kinlaw-shines-a-de-for-patriots
NFL draft: Day 1 winners and losers from the Senior Bowl (Winners - North Carolina DL Jason Strowbridge (North team): There was shock when he weighed in at 267 pounds (after he was listed at 285 in college), leading to further questions about where Strowbridge’s best position might be in the NFL. He spent a lot of time as a 3- and 5-technique in college, but this is a frame that likely belongs on the edge. After watching Strowbridge in practice, we suspect he’ll find ways to win no matter where he lines up. He had a disruptive practice, especially in the one-on-one drills, where he shined. Just ask Wake Forest’s Justin Herron, who was put on his backside by Strowbridge on a dominant rep. It was a great start to the week, flashing power and quickness. The one guy who seemed to slow him down was Hennessy. Hennessy held up well in one-on-ones and stonewalled Strowbridge twice on what might have been his only two “losses” of the day.) (1-21-20): https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl-draft-day-1-winners-and-losers-from-the-senior-bowl-011117889.html
Bowl Preview: Top 10 prospects to watch on Friday, December 27 (Jason Strowbridge, DL, North Carolina, 6-4, 261, #55: A defensive tackle for the Tar Heels, Strowbridge (who is listed everywhere from 261 to 285-pounds) will likely need to play as a strong-side defensive end in the NFL. For the Lions, he would fit in the big defensive end (Hand role). Today, and at the Senior Bowl, Strowbridge will get a chance to show he can translate his power and lateral quickness into consistency as a pass rusher.) (12-27-19): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2019/12/27/bowl-preview-top-10-prospects-detroit-lions/
2019 Bowl Preview: Military, Texas, and Pinstripe Bowls (Safety Myles Dorn and defensive linemen Jason Strowbridge are solid prospects with bright NFL futures. Dorn is the heart and soul of the Tar Heel defense. He is a sound tackler who is as reliable as they come. Strowbridge will be in Mobile, Alabama, for the Senior Bowl. He offers positional versatility as he can play both inside and outside along the defensive line.) (12-27-19): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2019-college-bowl-preview-military-texas-and-pinstripe-bowls/
Prospects to watch in Military Bowl (Jason Strowbridge, DL: Strowbridge, a Senior Bowl invite, is a flashy but inconsistent player. At times, his hand work is outstanding at the point of attack, and he can close on the ball carrier in a hurry. But he disappears for long stretches and isn't a noticeably gifted pass-rusher by way of a stellar first step or closing speed. The uniquely sized 6-foot-5, 285-pounder finished the regular season with 2.5 sacks and six tackles for loss. ) (12-19-19): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/military-bowl-time-tv-channel-2020-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-in-north-carolina-vs-temple/
Grading 2020 Senior Bowl invites (DI JASON STROWBRIDGE, NORTH CAROLINA: Strowbridge has been a consistently solid run defender for the Tarheels, with run-defense grades of 77.5, 78.2 and now 79.9 in his three years as a starter. Unfortunately, we’ve yet to see any flashes as a pass-rusher, with only one game in his career earning a pass-rushing grade over 75.0.) (11-26-19): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-grading-2020-senior-bowl-invitees
College Football Week 9: Eckrich ACC Team of the Week (Jason Strowbridge, UNC: The UNC interior defender contributed 81 total snaps on Saturday in their narrow victory over Duke, and he was nothing but the most prolific interior run defender in Power Five football in Week 9, earning an 87.9 run-defense grade across 30 snaps. Strowbridge was dominant, forcing a fumble and adding four defensive stops. His effort in run defense was unmatched, and he even added three quarterback pressures to his already impressive resume.) (10-28-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-week-9-eckrich-acc-team-of-the-week
College Football Week 6: Eckrich ACC Team of the Week (Jason Strowbridge, UNC: Strowbridge was able to secure two QB pressures up the middle while securing a run stop in the process. He had a monster grade that only gets tarnished by a few missed tackles, but outside those, was stout in all facets during the Tar Heels win.) (10-7-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-week-6-eckrich-acc-team-of-the-week
UNC Injuries Provide Uncertainty Ahead of Clemson Matchup (Defensive Tackle Jason Strowbridge: Strowbridge didn't play against Wake Forest and was "nicked up" in the Appalachian State game, forcing him to play half his usual snap count, and he seemed ineffective in the snaps he did face. He remains "questionable" for Saturday. "He got nicked up again and we were trying to manage how many reps he really took," defensive coordinator Jay Bateman said. "So, we were trying to save him for some third-down stuff; trying to save him for some pass rush stuff. I thought Xach Gill played really well. I thought Ray (Vohasek) played really well when they came in for Jason. Tomari (Fox) is playing all over the place right now.") (9-23-19): https://247sports.com/college/north-carolina/Article/UNC-Tar-Heels-football-injuries-Charlie-Heck-Myles-Wolfolk-Jace-Ruder--136025925/
UNC Tar Heels vs. Wake Forest Demon Deacons game (The Tar Heels were without starting defensive tackle Jason Strowbridge, who was dealing with a sore ankle. He was dressed, but was ruled out minutes before the game. Strowbridge, who is 6-5, 285 pounds, missed spring camp with a foot injury before returning in the summer. Through two games, he had five tackles and two tackles for loss. “He’s a pro player,” Brown said. “He’s our best pass rusher, maybe our best defensive player, so you really miss him.”) (9-13-19): https://www.newsobserver.com/sports/college/acc/unc/unc-now/article235071727.html
North Carolina Tar Heels: Myles Dorn projected to go in second round (Jason Strowbridge: Scouts are torn on North Carolina defensive tackle Jason Strowbridge, as some grade him as a top-45 prospect while others believe he’s last-round material. I agree with the latter with my sixth-round grade. Strowbridge is an explosive first-step lineman who lacks size and strength. At present time, I view him as a solid but not spectacular three-technique prospect.) (8-26-19): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/north-carolina-tar-heels-summer-grades-pauline/
Boise State Profile: https://broncosports.com/sports/football/roster/curtis-weaver/6893
Scouting Reports:
Draft Tek: https://www.drafttek.com/NFL-Draft-Scouting-Reports/Scouting-Report-Curtis-Weaver.asp
NFL.com: https://www.nfl.com/prospects/curtis-weaver?id=32195745-4157-3489-d055-25f35fe1611b
Draft Network: https://thedraftnetwork.com/player/curtis-weaver/NdZQK5w8Zi
Articles:
Draft: Plan B options for top prospects (Chase Young Plan B: Curtis Weaver, Boise State: Weaver is a first-round prospect on my Big Board. No. 16 overall, actually. In his three years at Boise State, Weaver had 34 sacks and 47.5 tackles for loss. Sure, the Mountain West doesn't provide the best competition in college, but he was about as dominant as one can possibly be at that "level." He has good burst off the snap, but more importantly, his ability to flatten around the corner en route to the quarterback is outstanding, and he leans on a small collection of effective pass-rushing moves. Plus, at 6-foot-2 and 265 pounds, Weaver naturally has a low center of gravity and sets a sturdy edge. While of course not the prospect of Young's caliber, he brings a lot of the same strengths to the field. ) (4-16-20): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-draft-2020-plan-b-options-for-teams-that-miss-on-top-prospects-like-jerry-jeudy-and-isaiah-simmons/
2020 NFL Draft: PFF's All-Small School Team (EDGE: CURTIS WEAVER, BOISE STATE - The top small-school prospect on the PFF draft board, Weaver dominated unlike any non-Power 5 player we’ve ever graded. Over the past three seasons, Weaver racked up an absurd 72 combined sacks and hits. Those are big boy numbers.) (4-14-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-pffs-all-small-school-team
Boom or bust: The 15 riskiest prospects in NFL draft (DE Curtis Weaver, Boise State: At a position for which teams often have a high threshold for desired physical traits, Weaver is an outlier — and not in a good way. Despite his heavy physique along with suboptimal burst and quickness, the 6-2, 265-pound first-team All-American racked up 34 sacks and 46 1/2 tackles for loss in three years. Determination and power will only take an edge rusher so far, though, meaning Weaver will be under pressure to hit the weight room and develop a wider array of tricks.) (4-10-20): https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2020/04/10/nfl-draft-2020-riskiest-players-jordan-love-justin-herbert/5122245002/
2020 NFL Draft: 10 prospects who won't get picked high enough (EDGE CURTIS WEAVER, BOISE STATE - This fall is perhaps the most undeserving of any of the prospects' plunges. The biggest concern with Weaver was his athleticism, but he helped ease that concern with his great three-cone at the NFL Scouting Combine. His production has been off the charts the past two seasons, posting pass-rush grades above 92.0 in both years that combine to form a two-year grade ranking behind only Chase Young. His pass-rush win rate is actually over three percentage points higher than any other edge defender. Weaver's power off the edge makes his lack of overall burst not that big of a deal. Sure, there’s some risk with that, but he shouldn’t be falling down to the third round as many suggest.) (4-10-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-college-football-2020-nfl-draft-10-prospects-who-wont-get-picked-high-enough
2020 NFL Draft: Perfect landing spots for the top 10 edge defenders (3. CURTIS WEAVER — TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS (PFF Big Board Rank: 22): Weaver is one of the players that PFF is higher on than most around the industry and that all comes down to his history of production. Weaver dominated in 2018 and 2019 off the edge for Boise State, earning pass-rushing grades of 92.8 and 92.3 in those campaigns. In 2018, his pass-rush win rate crossed over 30%, which is an absurd number for a player who rushed the passer on as many snaps as he did. The concern with Weaver is whether he has the athleticism to produce against NFL offensive linemen. His overall build and athleticism may leave you wanting more, but Weaver does have elite bend for the position, something he showcased in a 7.0-second three-cone at the combine. The Buccaneers brought back their starting edge defender duo from a season ago in Shaquil Barrett and Jason Pierre-Paul, but Barrett will be playing on the franchise tag and Pierre-Paul is 31 years old and coming off three consecutive seasons without a pass-rushing grade above 70.0. Weaver could come in and be a rotational piece in his rookie season as he acclimates to the NFL, serving as a potential starter in the coming years if Pierre-Paul sees his play decline further or the Buccaneers are unable to come to terms with Barrett long term. They’re also a destination that would allow Weaver to rush the passer from a two-point stance, something he did almost exclusively at Boise State. He would be a steal for Tampa Bay on Day 2, given where he sits on our big board.) (4-8-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-perfect-landing-spots-for-the-top-10-edge-defenders
Detroit Lions Could Still Add Two EDGE Rushers to Improve Defense (If the Lions were to select Curtis Weaver in the draft, he would likely provide an instant, much-needed boost in the pass-rush department. During the 2019 season, Weaver finished among the nation's leaders with 18.5 tackles for loss and 13.5 sacks. It resulted in him taking home the Mountain West Defensive Player of the Year award.) (3-31-20): https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/detroit-lions-defensive-line-must-remain-high-priority-for-bob-quinn
2020 Draft: 5 groups of edge rushers (For reasons unbeknownst to me, Weaver is widely considered a second-tier prospect in this class. At 6-2 and 265 pounds, he has an NFL body, he recorded 34 sacks and 47.5 tackles for loss during his three seasons at Boise State, and he plays with excellent bend and a nice arsenal of pass-rushing counters. He crushed his combine too with a 7.00 second three cone, which is phenomenal for his height/weight ratio.) (3-30-20): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-draft-examining-chase-young-klavon-chaisson-and-rest-of-the-edge-rusher-class-by-type/
Meet Curtis Weaver, Boise State's do-it-all edge defender (3-25-20): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2020/03/25/nfl-draft-prospects-2020-curtis-weaver-boise-state-interview/
3 EDGE Rushers Lions Could Target in Later Rounds of NFL Draft (EDGE Curtis Weaver, Boise State: A highly productive player while at Boise State, Weaver had back-to-back dominant seasons rushing the passer. According to Pro Football Focus, the talented EDGE rusher graded 91.0 or better overall in both 2018 and 2019. During the 2019 season, Weaver finished among the nation's leaders with 18.5 tackles for loss and 13.5 sacks. It resulted in him taking home the Mountain West Defensive Player of the Year award. If the Lions were to select Weaver in the draft, he would likely provide an instant, much-needed boost in the pass-rush department.) (3-23-20): https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/3-edge-rushers-lions-could-target-in-later-rounds-of-nfl-draft
2020 NFL draft: Curtis Weaver scouting report (3-20-20): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2020/03/20/2020-nfl-draft-curtis-weaver-scouting-report/
Could Lions Target EDGE Defender Curtis Weaver in NFL Draft? (3-17-20): https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/could-lions-target-edge-defender-curtis-weaver-in-nfl-draft
2020 NFL draft: Don't overlook A.J. Dillon, our No. 79 overall prospect (71. Boise State EDGE Curtis Weaver (6-foot-2, 265 pounds): Yahoo Sports draft grade: 5.82. The lowdown: With 34 sacks in three seasons — and 10 or more in each year with the Broncos — Weaver is among the top college sack artists in recent years. Even with a shorter, squattier frame and less-than-ideal athleticism, Weaver consistently found his way to the quarterback. Power is a big part of Weaver’s game, as he can bore through bigger tackles, hand-fight with almost any blocker and leverage his way into the backfield. His heavy and skilled hands are an advanced part of his game and a big reason why he’s had so much success. Weaver remains a challenging evaluation for scouts, as his traits do not fit the typically successful pass rusher in the league. There are exceptions to every rule, but his below-average explosion (in combine testing), middling short-area quickness and lack of length will work against him. There are some similarities in his game to the Ravens’ Matthew Judon, but Judon didn't reach his peak as as a defender until Year 4 — and could be traded this offseason. Can Weaver diversify his game as a stand-up rusher? Don’t rule it out. But Weaver, who turns 22 in August, battled weight issues early in his career, isn’t terribly natural in coverage and has work to do in his run stopping. And the difference in competition level between Mountain West offensive tackles and the ones he’ll face in the NFL is cavernous. By the numbers: Following a two-sack debut as a freshman in the 2017 opener against Troy, Weaver went the next two games (against Washington State and New Mexico) without a sack. In his final 37 games, Weaver never went more than one game without at least half a sack. Interesting fact: Weaver’s mother wanted him to wear No. 56 because she’s a fan of Lawrence Taylor. But Weaver chose 99 — he’s a J.J. Watt and Aaron Donald fan. Draft range: Top-75 pick) (3-12-20): https://sports.yahoo.com/2020-nfl-draft-dont-overlook-aj-dillon-as-a-pro-prospect-044220591.html
PFF's Mike Renner Discusses Day 2 Options for Detroit Lions (The other Day two option Renner mentioned was Boise State linebacker Curtis Weaver. "Curtis Weaver. I am a big fan of," Renner said. "He is not necessarily that type of pass-rusher. He is more versatile in terms of he can kick inside. Rush the passer -- super high rate at Boise State. "I don't think he goes in the first round. I think second round, third round he could come off the board. Those two guys, we are pretty big fans of here at PFF. Just because of production at college. It's super high.") (3-5-20): https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/-mike-renner-pff-discusses-day-two-options-for-lions-2020-nfl-draft
TWENTYMAN: 7 pass rushers not named Chase Young that could interest Lions (7. Curtis Weaver, Boise State – Two-point rusher: Height/weight: 6-2, 265. 2019 stats: 52 tackles, 19.5 tackles for loss, 13.5 sacks, one forced fumble. Combine results: 40: DNP, Bench: DNP, Vertical: 32.5, Broad: 116.0, 3 Cone: 7.0. Scouting report: Stand-up end whose production as a pass rusher must be balanced out by his below-average ability and athleticism in stopping the run. Weaver is a naturally instinctive counter-rusher who uses synchronized hands/feet to attack both inside and outside edges as a rusher, but his lack of explosiveness and athletic traits could dull his rush production against NFL offensive tackles ... – Lance Zierlein, NFL.com. Draft projection: Day 2. What Weaver says about his game: "I feel like my bend is the best in the draft. And then I feel like my get-off is up there." Twentyman: Weaver doesn't have the ideal measurables, but his 34 sacks are the most ever in the Mountain West Conference. He was a sack and tackle-for-loss machine over the last three years at Boise State.) (3-4-20): https://www.detroitlions.com/news/twentyman-7-pass-rushers-not-named-chase-young-that-could-interest-the-lions
2020 NFL Draft: Prospects PFF likes more than other scouts and media (EDGE Curtis Weaver, Boise State: Curtis Weaver has been an impactful player since he first stepped foot on the field back in 2017. During that redshirt freshman season, Weaver produced a 77.1 pass-rush grade and astounding 18.6% pressure rate that ranked 12th in the FBS. As good as that year was, no one expected the once three-star recruit to turn into the Hulk as a pass-rusher. Over the last two years, Weaver has produced a pass-rush grade that ranks behind only top-five lock Chase Young, and he's won 26.2% of his reps — a rate that is nearly three percentage points higher than any other edge defender. There was some concern with his athleticism, but his testing at the Combine was far better than most expected.) (3-4-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-prospects-pff-likes-more-than-other-scouts-and-media
DL drills: Weaver shines, Brown struggles (Winners - Curtis Weaver, Boise State. Weaver has a unique, compact body for the edge rusher spot at just over 6-foot-2 and 265 pounds, which means his 7.00 time in the three cone was outstanding. Weaver is bendy on film too and uses his hands well at the point of attack.) (3-1-20): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-combine-2020-results-curtis-weaver-justin-madubuike-winners-as-edge-rushers-defensive-linemen-work-out/
2020 NFL Scouting Combine: What to watch for during DL and LB drills (NO ONE HAS MORE TO PROVE TONIGHT THAN CURTIS WEAVER: A lack of production in college isn't the concern for Weaver, as he's been one of the country's best pass-rushers over the last two seasons, right behind Ohio State's Chase Young. Weaver's two-year PFF pass-rush grade is second to only Young, and his two-year pass-rush win rate (26%) is over three percentage points higher than any other edge rusher. The big question is whether he can play even half as well against NFL tackles, given his below-average athleticism. Weaver got away with it in the Mountain West Conference, but he won't get away with it in the NFL. He'll need a decent day to make NFL teams feel safe picking him.) (2-29-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-scouting-combine-what-to-watch-for-during-dl-and-lb-drills
2020 NFL Scouting Combine: Notable quotes and analysis from Day 3 (“I feel like my bend is the best in the class, and then I feel like my get-off is up there.” – Curtis Weaver on his strengths. PFF has Weaver listed as the third-best edge defender in the class due to his very impressive track record as a pass-rusher over the last several seasons for Boise State. Putting up strong results will be big for him this week, given that his athleticism is his biggest question mark.) (2-27-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-scouting-combine-notable-quotes-and-analysis-from-day-3
Edge defenders to target in free agency and the 2020 NFL Draft (The undervalued - Curtis Weaver: Weaver comes in at third on the PFF Big Board at the edge defender position, right behind Young and Epenesa. He may not have the athleticism that you want at the position, but all the guy has done at Boise State is produce. He has two consecutive seasons with 90.0-plus pass-rushing grades and two consecutive seasons with pass-rush win rates higher than 20%, topping out at 31.1% in 2018. At some point, you have to recognize that kind of elite production — regardless of the athletic profile.) (2-27-20): https://www.pff.com/news/nfl-edge-defenders-free-agency-2020-nfl-draft
Combine LB weigh-in: Chaisson stands out (Losers - Curtis Weaver, Boise State. Weaver had a bigger body in college. It looked as though he might actually be heavier than his listed 265-pounds. As a stand up edge rusher, the hope is that his weight would come down a little bit. He does everything else so well.) (2-26-20): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-combine-2020-results-klavon-chaisson-terrell-lewis-stand-out-as-linebackers-weigh-in/
Lions 2020 Combine Preview: EDGE Rusher (Curtis Weaver, Boise State: Weaver is one of the most productive pass rushers in the entire class. He finished with a pass-rushing grade above 92.0 in two consecutive seasons according to PFF -- the only player PFF has ever graded with multiple such seasons. In the early mock drafts, he was consistently penciled in around the mid-late first round. Since his hype has cooled down a bit. Mostly due to athletic limitations, there are questions surrounding his bend around the edge. The combine will be very important to alleviate those concerns. Weaver is a powerful player who wins a lot with technique and high football IQ. Two traits that Quinn highly covets.) (2-24-20): https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/detroit-lions-2020-nfl-combine-preview-edge-rusher
Who and what to watch at the 2020 NFL Combine: EDGE rushers (Curtis Weaver, Boise State (Suggested by: Scott Bischoff): Boise State used Weaver all over their defense, rushing him from the EDGE, from the interior, and routinely dropping into coverage, making him a true JACK linebacker. At roughly 265 pounds, he’s not as athletic or explosive as some of the lighter JACK linebackers in this class, but his intelligence, work ethic, and positional versatility will make him very appealing in the right scheme.) (2-23-20): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2020/02/23/detroit-lions-2020-nfl-combine-preview-edge-rushers/
2020 Combine Preview: Edge rusher (Curtis Weaver, Boise State, 6-3, 265: He's recorded 11.0, 9.5 and 13.5 sacks in each of his last three seasons. He also had 52 tackles and 19.5 tackles for loss this past season to go along with those 13.5 sacks. The knock on Weaver is that he doesn't possess elite size or athleticism, but it's hard ignore the production. If he tests well in Indianapolis, he could change some of the narrative surrounding himself as a prospect.) (2-18-20): https://www.detroitlions.com/news/2020-combine-preview-edge-rusher-young-chaisson
2020 NFL Draft edge rusher rankings: Chase Young in a class by himself, but there could be many early picks (Curtis Weaver, Boise State: Weaver is a little heavier than some of these other edge rushers but not at the expense of explosiveness. He does a fantastic job shedding defenders and getting around the edge. Over the past three seasons, he has accumulated 31.5 sacks. Anyone would be hard-pressed to find another college player with equal or better production during that time frame. Weaver is such a strong player but is not comfortable in coverage. The California native is destined to be a 4-3 defensive end. The Bills make a lot of sense as they potentially look to replace Jerry Hughes.) (2-18-20): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-draft-edge-rusher-rankings-chase-young-in-a-class-by-himself-but-there-could-be-many-early-picks/
2020 NFL Combine: Defensive End, Edge Rusher Prospects, Invites, What To Watch For (11. Curtis Weaver, Boise State 6-3, 265 (2) - NFL Combine What Matters: Is he a tweener in a good way, or does he not have a real role? Don’t expect a special workout – he’s a better football player than an athlete – but teams are going to look for anything positive to go along with the tape.) (2-11-20): https://collegefootballnews.com/2020/02/2020-nfl-combine-defensive-end-edge-rusher-prospects-invites-what-to-watch-for
2020 NFL Draft prospects with the most to prove at the combine (CURTIS WEAVER, EDGE, BOISE STATE: The lack of production in college isn’t the concern for Weaver – he’s been one of the country’s best pass-rushers over the last two seasons, right behind Ohio State’s Chase Young. That 26.2% win rate by Weaver was 3% higher than anyone else. Half of Weaver’s games this season alone ended with him generating five or more pressures. When he’s been on the field for Boise State, he was always one of the most dominant players on the field for either team, but the big question is whether he can produce even half this production against NFL tackles with his below-average athleticism. If Weaver balls out in Indianapolis, NFL teams will feel far more comfortable taking him early given the physical attribute question marks and track record on the field.) (2-7-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-prospects-with-the-most-to-prove-at-the-combine
2020 NFL Draft prospects who can use the NFL Combine to rise (Curtis Weaver, EDGE, Boise State: This prospect inclusion is of a different vein than the others. While the previous choices on this list have been stellar athletes due to re-establish their physical dominance, Boise State’s Curtis Weaver has been knocked down for his perceived athletic limitations. Weaver can prove at the NFL Combine that there’s a misconception regarding his athleticism. He won’t be a top-tier athletic tester, but Weaver can magnify the weight of his technical prowess and production with an NFL Combine performance that highlights his strong linear burst and more-than-passable flexibility when bending the corner.) (2-5-20): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2020-nfl-combine-prospects-rise/
The 2020 Mountain West NFL Draft class is the best in years (Curtis Weaver, EDGE, Boise State: The lack of hype for Curtis Weaver is astounding to me, considering his ability as a pass-rusher and his insane production. I guess it’s because he lacks “elite” physical tools. He’s one of the most well-rounded and refined pass rushers in this draft class. I would happily take Weaver in the second or third round and get a guy with 8+ sacks a year potential. Pair him opposite of an elite pass-rusher and let him go to work.) (2-4-20): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/the-2020-mountain-west-nfl-draft-class-is-the-best-in-years/
2020 NFL Draft Position Rankings: Edge Defenders (3. CURTIS WEAVER, BOISE STATE (Draft Board Rank: 17th): Weaver is a PFF favorite for what he's done as a pass-rusher in his time at Boise State. He produced 20 or more combined sacks and hits in each of his three seasons with the Broncos and is the only edge we've graded to have back-to-back pass-rushing grades over 92.0. His hands are right up there with Chase Young's for some of the best in this class, and his best work often came as an interior rusher on third downs (although he wasn't deployed often in that role). The worry with Weaver is his athleticism (or lack thereof). He doesn't fit the ideal physical profile for the position, and given that he beat up on Group of 5 tackles for the most part, it's only going to bring up more questions as to whether his production can translate to the NFL. We've never seen any non-Power 5 defender dominate to the degree Weaver has, though, so we'll bank on that proficiency continuing.) (2-3-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-position-rankings-edge-defenders
Multiple Teams Grade Curtis Weaver in Mid-Rounds (1-28-20): http://walterfootball.com/nflhotpress/article/Multiple-Teams-Grade-Curtis-Weaver-in-Mid-Rounds
Ravens 2020 draft needs, fits, picks (Curtis Weaver, EDGE, Boise State: For a long time now the Ravens have prioritized width for their pass-rushing outside linebackers, and that's precisely what Weaver has at around 260 pounds with impressive get-off and bend around the corner. He was highly productive in each of his three seasons with the Broncos and has experience sinking in coverage.) (1-15-20): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-draft-ravens-team-needs-draft-picks-prospects-to-watch-for-baltimore/
PFF favorites in the 2020 NFL Draft (EDGE CURTIS WEAVER, BOISE STATE: If Chase Young didn’t exist, we’d talk a lot more about how dominant Weaver has been. Even with his effectiveness being limited by playing through an ankle injury down the stretch this season, Weaver still finished his second consecutive season with a pass-rushing grade over 92.0. In all three of his seasons at Boise State, he’s had double-digit sacks and 20-plus combined sacks and hits. That’s elite production and consistency. While the level of competition is certainly a concern, we haven’t seen other group-of-five rushers put up numbers close to this.) (1-14-20): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-under-the-radar-sleepers-prospects-2020
Evaluating declaration decisions (EDGE Curtis Weaver (Boise State): Weaver gets off blocks at an elite pace. He is strong and draws a lot of double teams. The California native absolutely bullies linemen on the edge. He has a few great counter moves and does a great job setting the edge. Weaver could probably stand to work on his body composition a bit more but his explosion off the edge is superior to most in this class. NFL Draft projection: First-round pick) (1-9-20): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/nfl-draft-2020-sizing-up-early-declaration-decisions-of-tua-fromm-eason-and-more-key-prospects/
Patriots 2020 draft needs, fits, picks (DE Curtis Weaver: Weaver has been a productive player since his freshman season at Boise State, which is a good indication of success at the NFL level. He's a thick but decently bendy edge rusher with a strong edge-setting ability and refined hand usage. He absolutely should be on New England's radar in Round 1.) (1-4-20): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-draft-new-england-patriots-team-needs-draft-picks-prospects-to-watch/
2020 Top Edge NFL Prospects: Don’t sleep on Chaisson (Curtis Weaver, Boise State Broncos (6’3, 265 pounds): Curtis Weaver isn’t a household name just yet. However, it won’t be long before he becomes a favorite in the draft community. Weaver is insanely productive, as his 13.5 sacks in 2019, which ranks 5th in all of college football, would indicate. In his three-year career at Boise State, Weaver has tallied 34 sacks in 40 games. Weaver has a thick build and prototypical size to thrive in any scheme. He is extremely powerful, is a stout run defender, and is able to utilize leverage to overcome opposing offensive tackles. He isn’t going to put up eye-popping numbers at the NFL Scouting Combine, but he should still warrant a first-round selection. Here’s a sneak peek at Weaver’s outstanding hand usage and his ability to win with leverage. Weaver is a versatile edge-defender who can win inside or outside. Curtis Weaver has the traits that the New England Patriots covet in their defensive ends. At worst case, he will be a top-40 selection in the 2020 NFL Draft who should find playing time at the next level in no time.) (1-1-20): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2020-top-edge-nfl-prospects-dont-sleep-on-chaisson/
Falcons 2020 draft needs, fits, picks (Curtis Weaver, EDGE, Boise State: The Falcons need to add a pass rush. There are some options should they hold pat at No. 16 overall. Weaver has dominated the Mountain West each of the past three seasons. He has already declared for the 2020 NFL Draft. The California native explodes off the line of scrimmage and does a good job dislodging the blocker's hands. He does a good job setting the edge in the run game as well. There is room for him to improve the composition of his body and become an even more effective rusher. Penn State's Yetur Gross-Matos and LSU's K'Lavon Chaisson are two other players that could step in and contribute as outside linebackers.): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-draft-atlanta-falcons-team-needs-draft-picks-prospects-to-watch/
Boise State EDGE Curtis Weaver declares for 2020 NFL draft (12-28-19): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2019/12/28/2020-nfl-draft-prospects-curtis-weaver-boise-state-declares/
2020 NFL Draft Stock - Pre-Bowls III (Up - Curtis Weaver, OLB, Boise State: Weaver has been a pass-rushing force for Boise State over the past couple of seasons, totaling 24 sacks in that time. Some in the media have projected Weaver as a first-rounder, and that is understandable given his production getting after the quarterback. Some team sources say they have him lower on Day 2 because of skill-set limitations. It will be important for Weaver (6-3, 265) to test well in the leadup to the 2020 NFL Draft.) (12-25-19): http://walterfootball.com/draft2020stock_17.php
NFL draft: Two QBs headline our early bowl-game winners and losers (LOSERS
Boise State EDGE Curtis Weaver — We’re still ambivalent about his draft projection to a degree, and his relatively quiet performance against Washington — one tackle in each half — is part of the reason why. Zero QB hits, pressures or sacks on 35 dropbacks. Playing against a Huskies offensive line that made wholesale personnel changes (LT Trey Adams sitting out, RT Jared Hilbers switching to the left side, sophomore Henry Bainivalu starting at right guard and senior Henry Roberts making his second career start at right tackle), we expected more. Weaver still has heavy and skilled hands and often outworks his opponents to make impact plays. But he’s just not a first-round caliber prospect. We’d rather see him land in the Day 2 range to better reflect his talent and reasonable expectations.) (12-24-19): https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl-draft-two-q-bs-headline-our-early-bowlgame-winners-and-losers-164426572.html
Bowl Preview: Top 10 prospects to watch on Saturday (Curtis Weaver, EDGE, Boise State, 6-3, 264, redshirt junior: Weaver is exactly the type of defensive lineman the Lions love, as he can hold his own at the 7, 5, and 4i-techniques. The big difference with Weaver — as opposed to others on the current roster — is he is a terror off the edge. At the end of the draft evaluation process, Weaver could find himself as one of the top EDGE players in this class and could be selected early on day two — or even Day 1, I see you Danny Kelly from the Ringer.) (12-21-19): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2019/12/21/bowl-preview-top-10-prospects-to-watch-on-saturday/
Saturday Bowl Game (On the defensive side of the ball, EDGE rusher Curtis Weaver is the Broncos’ best pro prospect and likely the best prospect in the Mountain West. Weaver isn’t an elite athlete in terms of flexibility or explosiveness, but he plays with great fundamentals and length. Boise State lines him up in different roles in various fronts, giving him additional versatility. Weaver is a traditional 3-4 OLB, and I would expect to hear his name go in the top-50 selections.) (12-21-19): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2019-college-bowl-preview-camellia-las-vegas-and-new-orleans-bowls/
Prospects to watch in Las Vegas Bowl (Boise State - Curtis Weaver, EDGE: Weaver has looked like a first-round pick since his freshman season Boise State, when he tallied 11 sacks and 13 tackles for loss. His production hasn't really dipped since then, and the 6-3, 265-pounder with a stellar arsenal of pass-rushing moves and awesome bend has 13.5 sacks and 19 tackles for loss this season. Weaver has made it look easy in the Mountain West and will find himself in an outstanding one-on-one matchup with Adams in this bowl game.) (12-21-19): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/las-vegas-bowl-time-tv-channel-2020-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-in-washington-vs-boise-state/
1 NFL draft prospect from each 2019-20 college football bowl game worth watching (Las Vegas Bowl -- Boise State vs. Washington: While Washington quarterback Jacob Eason is a potential first-round pick, Curtis Weaver is one to watch at linebacker for Boise State. The junior has put together three consecutive productive seasons, with 47.5 tackles for loss and 34 sacks in 39 games. Weaver has 19.5 tackles for loss and 13.5 sacks to go with 50 tackles and one interception this season. He’s a versatile prospect who has made some plays in coverage, with a hand in the dirt or rushing the edge. Kiper has Weaver ranked as his No. 3 outside linebacker prospect.) (12-20-19): https://www.mlive.com/lions/2019/12/1-nfl-draft-prospect-from-each-2019-20-college-football-bowl-game-worth-watching.html
College Football Playoff and bowl game preview: players to watch and betting projections (Headline of the Game: NFL scouts will be watching to see if Curtis Weaver can get to Jacob Eason. Due to the hype of Chase Young, several edge defenders have gone overlooked in 2019. Boise State’s Curtis Weaver is one of those players; he headlines this group and is a lock to be a first-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft. PFF’s fourth-highest graded pass-rusher will have some snaps going up against right tackle Jared Hilbers, who skyrocketed up draft boards this season by producing the 12th-best PFF grade at his position. Eason’s PFF grade takes a massive hit when under duress, so Weaver's presence in the pass-rush will be huge in this one.) (12-20-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-playoff-and-bowl-game-preview-players-to-watch-and-betting-projections
NFL DRAFT PROSPECT SHOWDOWN: EARLY BOWL GAMES (Washington QB Jacob Eason vs Boise State EDGE Curtis Weaver - The Chris Petersen Send Off Bowl! Okay, that’s not the official name of the bowl, but for anyone who follows college football closely, that’s exactly what this game is. Petersen created a dynasty at Boise State before stepping up to the FBS to make Washington one of the Pac-12’s best programs for a half-decade. With Petersen announcing he will be stepping away from Washington after this season, this is a fitting farewell for the coach. In the middle of the Chris Petersen Send Off Bowl lies a battle between two potential top-100 picks. Washington QB Jacob Eason will have to show up as a passer while Boise State’s Curtis Weaver flies off the edge to terrorize him. Weaver is the prized prospect of the two, at least with respect to where they rank among the peers at their position. Though he trailed off toward the end of the regular season, Weaver racked up 13.5 sacks over 13 games in 2019, making him one of just seven players to average at least one sack per appearance. Weaver shares his company in that accomplishment with future top-5 pick Chase Young (Ohio State) and freshman star Gregory Rousseau (Miami), among a few others. What’s amusing about Weaver is that the thick 6-foot-3, 265-pound edge defender often plays from wide alignments, and even stand-up positions, and wins primarily through speed. If one were to just look at Weaver’s build, they might assume him to be a stronger, craftier strong-side defensive end along the line of Za’Darius Smith of the Green Bay Packers. That’s not Weaver at all, though. Someone like Dee Ford of the San Francisco 49ers, who measures in about 6-foot-2 and 243-pounds, is a more apt stylistic comparison for Weaver. In all of these clips, Weaver works to the edge, dips around the corner, and fires toward the quarterback. Of course, being that these offensive linemen are low-level MWC talent, Weaver is not being challenged to bend as much as he will need to in the NFL, but the initial burst and finishing speed are clear. Weaver has the raw speed to make plays happen, he just needs to prove he can be bendier once he gets to the NFL. Thankfully for Weaver, he will not have to square off against left tackle Trey Adams in this one. Adams is a potential top-50 pick who has been excellent in 2019 after missing the 2018 season with a back injury. At 6-foot-8, 314-pounds, Adams’ strength and length could have been an issue for Weaver. Alas, Weaver won’t have to worry about that and will instead be able to focus his attention on how he will finish plays to bring down Eason. Despite an up-and-down junior season, Eason may still end up declaring for the NFL Draft. Many players have already declared and bowed out of the bowl game, but Eason has decided he’s going to finish out the rest of this season in full, even just for a mid-tier bowl game. Eason has a handful of flaws ranging from down-to-down accuracy to his spotty decision making, but the 6-foot-6, 227-pound junior is always tough to bring down. Though not the best straight-line athlete, Eason has plenty of requisite quickness to buy himself time in the pocket and slip by a few defenders per game. He can rollout of the pocket and make throws while separating himself from pass-rushers on the move. Eason is purely a “run to be able to throw” kind of athlete, but he’s a dang good one. As such, Weaver may have a tough time getting to Eason despite his own impressive speed and quickness. Weaver has failed to find a sack in three of his past four games, with two of those games coming versus athletic QBs in Tevaka Tuioti (New Mexico) and Cole McDonald (Hawaii). Granted, Weaver was also nursing a minor foot injury over that period, so maybe he will be right for the bowl game. An impressive multi-sack performance against Eason would be the perfect final impression for Weaver to leave, assuming he declares for the draft.) (12-18-19): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/prospect-vs-prospect/nfl-draft-prospect-showdown-early-bowl-games
Sporting News 2019 college football All-Americans (LB: Curtis Weaver, Boise State: Weaver was a known commodity coming into the season, and he lived up to the billing in another all-out season for the Broncos. Weaver piled up 13.5 sacks and 19.5 tackles for loss. Weaver had three games with multiple sacks for Boise State this season.) (12-17-19): https://www.sportingnews.com/us/ncaa-football/news/sporting-news-2019-college-football-all-americans/b3bevye8lma310clpads6xo1w
The most underrated college football players of 2019 (EDGE CURTIS WEAVER, BOISE STATE: After his incredible 2018 season when he finished top-three in pass-rush grade, win rate and pressure rate, it seemed impossible for the world to continue ignoring this guy in 2019. Yet, they still are, and Weaver is still playing at an elite level. Even with a slower end to the year after suffering an injury back in Week 12, Weaver is PFF’s fourth highest-graded pass-rusher, at 92.6, and won at an impressive rate of 24.3%. Not to mention, 28 of his 59 total pressures have been a sack or a hit. Prior to injury, Weaver was right behind Chase Young for top dog in PFF pass-rush grade. Weaver’s hand strength is absurd. Competition has been poor, but he’s been moving some of these tackles like a rag doll.) (12-11-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-underrated-players-2019-season
2019 Mountain West Championship: Preview, Prospects, and Prediction (Still, the most prominent player to watch in this game period is defensive end Curtis Weaver, who has been projected as a potential first-round player by me in my mock earlier this week. Weaver is a plug-and-play polished pass rusher due to his advanced football IQ and hand usage. He has a good pass rush plan as he takes angles and then counters well with inside moves. It is clear he does extensive film study as he plays to the tendencies of the tackle and then beats their weaknesses. Weaver could be a massive problem for Hawaii if they can not keep him in check.) (12-4-19): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2019-mountain-west-championship-preview-prospects-and-prediction/
College Football: 2019 PFF All-Mountain West Team (EDGE DEFENDER - First Team: Curtis Weaver, Boise State: One of the nation's finest pass-rushers, Weaver dominated against Mountain West play and recorded a pass-rush triple-double once again this year. He brought down 15 sacks, 13 QB hits and 31 more hurries, leading all MWC defenders with 59 pressures. His 30 defensive stops were the second-most among edge defenders, and he even chipped in with an interception and two pass breakups on just 83 snaps in coverage.) (12-3-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-2019-pff-all-mountain-west-team
NFL DRAFT PROSPECT SHOWDOWN: WEEK 13 (Utah State vs Boise State - Utah State QB Jordan Love vs Boise State EDGE Curtis Weaver: What better place to choose an unusual matchup than the Mountain West? The MWC is a whacky, watered down version of the PAC-12 and it’s only right that the late-night charades earn a matchup as unusual as the conference. Utah State QB Jordan Love won’t have to worry about outdueling another draft eligible QB or a particular defender in coverage like past QB features have had to worry about. Instead, Love will have to keep his head on a swivel so that he doesn’t get it clean knocked off of his body by Boise State EDGE Curtis Weaver. Weaver is currently third in the country and first in the Group of Five in sacks, and you’d best believe he wants to get that top overall spot by season’s end. Like the conference and this matchup, Weaver is a bit of an atypical player. He carries a sort of frumpy 6-foot-3, 265-pound frame, which may suggest he is more of a strong-side end with a major in run defense, but Weaver is a speed rusher first and foremost. Weaver’s burst off the line is among the best in the country, as is his understanding of how to attack the outside shoulder and dip around the arc. The redshirt junior pass rusher has other ways to win, but in the MWC, he isn’t often required to use other tactics. Through raw speed or a nice hand swipe, or a mix of both, Weaver can consistently find his way into opposing pockets. Weaver has failed to record at least a half-sack in just three of his ten appearances this season. For comparison, Weaver has just as many games without a sack (three) as he does with at least two sacks (three). Weaver is as much a model of consistency as he is a force for play making. Love will have a target on his back in this one. The matchup may be particularly tricky for him not only because of Weaver’s individual prowess, but because Utah State’s offensive line is a disaster and Love’s handling of pressure is hit or miss.More specifically, Love can be okay against pressure if he is afforded room to step up in the pocket. With Weaver being an edge rusher, there may be cases in this game in which Weaver gets around the edge, but the interior of the pocket is open enough for Love to move up. However, Boise State’s interior is also rather impressive for a MWC and, as stated, Utah State’s offensive line isn’t doing their quarterback any favors. As such, it’s likely that we end up with a number of plays that look closer to this example. Love is not provided an immediate place to step up into the pocket and is forced to make a hurried decision. Love tries to scramble at first, but quickly realizes he is going to be closed in on, so he tries to rush a throw out to avoid being sacked. While Love could have thrown this away and allowed his team to punt, the redshirt junior passer fires a ball into a nonexistent window for an interception that set up the opponent with excellent field position. With as prone as Love is to making hurried decisions and how bad Utah State’s supporting cast around him is, Weaver and the Broncos should be able to tee off on the 6-4 Aggies offense. Boise State are the best team in the Mountain West (again) and Weaver won’t let a quarterback with more interceptions than touchdowns stop that from being true. Advantage: Weaver) (11-20-19): https://www.rotoworld.com/article/prospect-vs-prospect/nfl-draft-prospect-showdown-week-13
Curtis Weaver in sweats with a walking boot on right foot (11-17-19): https://mobile.twitter.com/WillHallKTVB/status/1195935869586178049
NFL draft notes: If Dolphins miss on Tua or Burrow, there's a fascinating alternative (Boise State EDGE Curtis Weaver has had a nice season so far, and he was a huge factor in the Broncos’ 20-17 overtime win over Wyoming. The 6-3, 254-pound Weaver is the Mountain West’s career sack leader, adding two sacks — both right before halftime as the Cowboys were driving to take a touchdown lead — to up his season total (12.5) and career totals (33). There are some who have questioned whether Weaver’s athleticism is top notch, and his level of competition is a notch down from other Power-5 rushers. But he’s displayed clear improvement season to season, plays with a great combination of finesse and power and has a clear pass-rush plan when he hunts quarterbacks. We view Weaver as a top-50 pick and a borderline Day 1 selection until further notice. He’s had a strong season and matched a lot of the national hype he got in the preseason.) (11-11-19): https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl-draft-if-dolphins-miss-on-tua-or-burrow-theres-a-fascinating-alternative-220045709.html
College Football Week 10: 2020 NFL Draft Scouting Notes (Boise State Edge Curtis Weaver: Weaver put together one of the most unblockable performances of the season this week against San Jose State. He racked up five pressures on 50 pass-rushes, but had another 12(!) rushes deemed as wins that didn’t result in pressure because the ball came out too quickly. Basically, if he got a one-on-one, it was over. In every game Weaver has rushed the passer at least 15 times this year, he’s registered at least five pressures. There’s not much more Weaver can prove at this point given his competition level, but it’s sure fun to watch.) (11-5-19): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-college-football-week-10-2020-nfl-draft-scouting-notes
Top 10 non-skill position players in college football (4. CURTIS WEAVER, EDGE, BOISE STATE: Playing out west, Weaver has consistently dominated the competition this season for the Broncos and is winning 28.2% of his pass-rushing snaps, second only to Young. He's getting home with pressure, however, at a higher rate than Young as he lands a pressure on 23.7% of his pass rushes. He's totaled 42 pressures this year that include 11 sacks, eight QB hits and 23 hurries as the rest of the Mountain West teams have started to scheme against him. Weaver has chipped in with nine stops in run defense as well as two pass breakups when he's dropped into coverage as he's on pace for his second straight elite-graded season.) (11-1-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-top-10-non-skill-position-players-in-college-football-2019
2020 NFL Draft prospect Rankings: Top five players at each defensive position (4. Curtis Weaver, Boise State: Weaver does more with less than anyone on this list. He’s not the athletic freak of nature that the three guys above him are, but he has arguably the best hands in the class. They will not quit, and they carry some legit pop behind them. His 27.9% win rate as a pass-rusher trails only Chase Young on this list.) (10-3-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-2020-nfl-draft-prospect-rankings-top-five-players-at-each-defensive-position
2020 NFL draft: 10 rising prospects to watch (Weaver: Weaver could be this year’s big riser as an edge rusher who pushes his way into the first round. After posting over 20 sacks in his first two years at Boise State, Weaver is on pace for another outstanding season for the Broncos. He already has 6 sacks on the season which is tied for the most in all of college football at this point. He also has 7 tackles for a loss and is disrupting nearly every offensive play. His speed and quickness on the edge for a player who is 265 pounds is very enticing and if he continues this strong play all season long, he cold find himself in the first round conversation come April.) (9-19-19): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2019/09/19/2020-nfl-draft-rising-prospects-joe-burrow-jalen-hurts-henry-ruggs/
PFF Rankings: Highest-graded defensive linemen in college football through Week 3 (CURTIS WEAVER – BOISE STATE – 90.4 GRADE: The first newcomer to the list, the redshirt junior Weaver has picked up where he left off a season ago. In 2018, he finished with a 91.3 overall grade, 55 total pressures and 30 stops. This year, his 21 total QB pressures and six sacks are both tied for the most in the nation. In addition, he also has 10 stops. If not for seven missed tackles, he could very well be at the top of this list.) (9-18-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-pff-rankings-highest-graded-defensive-linemen-in-college-football-through-week-3
College Football Week 3 Eckrich Team (Curtis Weaver, Boise State: No defender brought in more total pressures this weekend than Weaver as his 11-pressure performance was one for the ages. On 30 pass-rushes, he totaled four sacks, one QB hit and six more QB hurries for a dominant 92.1 pass-rushing grade.) (9-15-19): https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-week-3-eckrich-team-of-the-week
Five possible Lions 2020 draft prospects: Week 1 (Curtis Weaver, LB, Boise State (No. 99): You can never have enough pass rushers and the 265-pound Weaver has 20.5 sacks over the past two seasons. Beyond the sacks, he brings steady pressure, disrupting the passer 56 times in 2018, according to Pro Football Focus. With a thick frame, he also has the necessary build to set a stout edge when defending the run. Florida State's shaky offensive line and up-tempo offense should provide Weaver plenty of opportunity to make an impact under the primetime lights. ) (8-31-19): https://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2019/08/31/five-possible-detroit-lions-2020-draft-prospects-week-1/2131134001/
College football Week 1: 2020 NFL Draft prospects to watch (BOISE STATE EDGE CURTIS WEAVER VS. FSU OFFENSIVE LINE: Calling Florida State’s offensive line the ‘best of the best’ is beyond generous – it’s outright ludicrous. But unfortunately for Weaver, the Seminoles are the only Power 5 team on Boise State’s schedule this season. For Weaver, we’d love to see him pick up where he left off last season. He earned a 93.4 pass-rushing grade from Week 7 on last season.) (8-31-19): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-college-football-week-1-2020-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch
2020 Draft predictions: Who'll go where (Group of 5 defender to land in the first round - Curtis Weaver, EDGE, Boise State: Somewhat quietly, the Group of 5 conferences have landed a first-round defender in the past four draft classes. A few months ago, it was Ed Oliver. The year before? Leighton Vander Esch. In 2017, Haason Reddick. Houston's William Jackson was picked at No. 24 overall in 2016. In 2020, that first-round defender will hail from Boise State. Weaver has looked like he belongs from the moment he stepped on the field in the Mountain West in 2017. That year, he had 11 sacks and 13 tackles for loss in 14 games. As a redshirt sophomore, he had 9.5 sacks and 13 tackles for loss across 12 contests. At 6-3 and 265 pounds, Weaver has NFL edge-defender size, plays with flashes of elite bend and outstanding hand use. He should go bananas in 2019 for the Broncos, and, in what appears to be a relatively down class of outside rushers, ultimately be one of the first players picked as his position.) (8-26-19): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-draft-predictions-does-justin-herbert-or-tua-tagovailoa-go-no-1-and-where-does-jalen-hurts-land/
2020 NFL Draft: Sleepers to know ahead of the 2019 college football season (EDGE CURTIS WEAVER, BOISE STATE: Over the latter half of 2018, there may not have been a more dominant pass-rusher in college football than Weaver. From Week 7 on last season, Weaver was behind only Arkansas State’s Ronheen Bingham in pass-rushing grade (93.4) and win rate (32.7%). His ability to kick inside and win as a pass-rusher is invaluable at the next level.) (8-22-19): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2020-nfl-draft-sleepers-to-know-ahead-of-the-2019-college-football-season
2020 NFL Draft prospects from the Group of 5: Boise State sack-artist Curtis Weaver the headliner (Curtis Weaver, EDGE, Boise State: Weaver has tallied 28 tackles for loss and 20.5 sacks in his first two seasons at Boise State. As a redshirt sophomore in 2018, he demonstrated incredibly developed pass-rushing moves and edge-collapsing bend reminiscent of Nick Bosa. He just needs to display the latter more often. Occasionally, he's pushed past the pocket when he doesn't play super low. However, very few outside rushers possess the effective, wide-ranging hand work and ability to bend the corner of Weaver. His burst off the snap is impressive too. The 6-3, 265-pound prospect has all the makings of being a first-round pick in 2020 if he builds on his first two stellar seasons with the Broncos.) (8-21-19): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2020-nfl-draft-prospects-from-the-group-of-5-boise-states-sack-artist-curtis-weaver-the-headliner/
NFL draft: 10 off-the-radar prospects who could become first-round picks in 2020 (Boise State EDGE Curtis Weaver: The 6-3, 266-pound Weaver has received a lot of preseason accolades, including being named preseason Mountain West Defensive Player of the Year and even receiving some All-America mention. The next line of progression is appearing heavily on NFL draft radars. In a breakout season in 2018, Weaver racked up 15 tackles for loss, 9.5 sacks and a conference-best 56 pressures. He’s one of the nation’s most natural pass rushers with a knack for making disruptive plays. Pro Football Focus even credited Weaver with pass-rush success rate of 26.8 last season, which was the third-highest rate among returning pass rushers at the FBS level. Although Weaver has two years of eligibility left, stacking a third straight year of strong production — he has 23 career sacks entering the season — could convince Weaver to declare early. He has top-40 pick upside. His lack of length is something to consider, but the Broncos are expected to expand his role and duties as the team’s hybrid “Stud” end. A big game in the opener against Florida State could kickstart his draft rise, and a strong scouting combine workout could seal up a high selection if Weaver declares early.) (7-31-19): https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl-draft-10-offtheradar-prospects-who-could-become-firstround-picks-in-2020-172451633.html
2020 NFL Draft: Mountain West full of potential top-100 draft picks (Mountain West NFL Draft Prospects - Curtis Weaver, EDGE, Boise State (6’3, 254): The next great Boise State defender is here. Curtis Weaver has everything teams look for in an EDGE: size, athleticism, strength, hand technique and a plan as a pass rusher. Weaver is one of the best defenders in the Mountain West, earning 1st-team All-Conference honors in both of his years as a starter. Weaver also lives in the backfield, putting up double-digit sack and tackle for loss numbers in both of those years as well (13 TFLs/11 sacks in 2017, 15 TFLs/9.5 sacks in 2018). Weaver could’ve come out in last year’s draft and been a top 75 pick some scouts say, but he has a chance to go in the first round in 2020, with another big year. What could help Weaver is becoming more stout in the run game; he is decent at defending the run, but tends to get off balance sometimes, which can get him washed down the line. Gaining a little more strength can help that as well. Weaver will have plenty of opportunities to showcase his talent and will be on the big stage right off the bat with Boise State playing Florida State for their first game. And going up against the next man on our list will only help Weaver get better every day.) (7-11-19): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2020-nfl-draft-mountain-west/
2020 NFL Draft: Chase Young and A.J. Epenesa lead EDGE class (5. Curtis Weaver: ESPN had Curtis Weaver as a three-star recruit coming out of St. Anthony high school in Long Beach, California. It didn’t take him long to surpass this ranking, as he was named a USA Today All-American after his freshman season in 2017. Since arriving at Boise, Weaver has been a productive sack machine. In two seasons, Weaver has accounted for 20.5 sacks, making him 6th all-time in school history. He is explosive and has a natural bend but needs to improve against the run, as he has a tendency to get washed out.) (7-4-19): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/2020-nfl-draft-young-epenesa-headline/
No comments:
Post a Comment